Attorney General Todd Rokita has initiated legal action against the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) over recent changes to Title IX regulations. The lawsuit, which includes five other states—Tennessee, Kentucky, Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia—challenges the new rule that allows transgender individuals access to facilities corresponding with their gender identity.
Rokita expressed concerns about the implications of this change on women's rights and safety. "We cannot effectively protect women’s rights — or even their physical safety — if we refuse to acknowledge there are in fact two sexes, male and female--and ONLY two sexes," he stated. He further argued that such a policy undermines the foundational principles of Title IX.
Title IX, established in 1972, was designed to prevent sex-based discrimination in federally funded educational institutions. Traditionally, it has permitted sex-segregated spaces like bathrooms and locker rooms due to physical differences between men and women.
The DOE's new rule aims to address gender identity discrimination by eliminating sex-based distinctions in educational settings. This move requires states like Indiana to adopt policies aligning with what Rokita describes as "radical gender ideology."
Rokita criticized the DOE for acting against Congress's intent regarding Title IX protections. He warned that schools could face financial penalties if they do not comply with these new guidelines.
"Congress intended Title IX to prevent discrimination against girls and women," Rokita said. "Now leftists are trying to twist Title IX to codify the very kind of anti-woman prejudice and discrimination this law was originally intended to remedy."
The lawsuit documentation is available for review.