Trump's Title IX Announcement Is Cruel. But It Does Not Change The Law

On September 28, 2026, President Donald Trump announced in the Oval Office at the White House that his administration was rescinding Biden-era regulations that protected LGBTQ students under Title IX. While this move is cruel and unnecessary, it does not change the law; schools are still required to include transgender students equally in all educational programs.

Title IX, enacted in 1972, prohibits sex discrimination in schools and covers all areas of education, not just sports. Despite a court blocking the Biden Administration's comprehensive 2024 regulations, the government still has to uphold the 2020 rule issued by Betsy DeVos. The Trump administration's action does not alter the existing legal protections for LGBTQ students.

Although the Supreme Court has allowed limited exclusion of transgender students in sports, this does not mean transgender girls must be barred from girls' sports. Federal and local laws still protect LGBTQ students, and they remain valid and enforceable outside of sports. LGBTQ students continue to face high rates of discrimination, with recent surveys showing that 68% experienced harassment or assault due to their transgender status, and 62% faced harassment due to their sexual orientation.

The political climate and rhetoric demonizing these students make it crucial for schools to uphold their commitment to protecting LGBTQ students, even in the face of attacks on their rights. The responsibility now lies with state and local officials to ensure the safety and well-being of these vulnerable young people.