The Department of Education (DOE) is set to issue two major amendments to Title IX regulations, changes that will potentially impact educational institutions, particularly colleges, universities, and public K-12 schools. The amendments are expected to be issued in the coming month, amidst ongoing academic sessions, thus posing challenges for these institutions.
One rule focuses on addressing gender identity in athletics. While the details of this amendment have yet to be released, it is expected to set stipulations on how educational institutions manage and handle gender identity issues, particularly in sports activities and athletic events at the school level.
The second rule is expected to bring substantial changes to the process of investigation and grievance for complaints related to sex-based discrimination and harassment. Current procedures and protocols are likely to face significant alterations under this new rule.
The Biden administration began proposing rules for public comment in June 2022, putting these changes on the public’s radar for the first time. As we approach the expected release of these amendments, educational institutions are likely anticipating how the new regulations will impact their current practices and what they will need to do to comply.
Via Fisher Phillips, it can be gathered that the upcoming changes are likely to instigate significant discussions and require thoughtful action from major educational institutions across the country. How these changes will play out, their long-term impact, and the reaction of educational stakeholders remains to be seen.