NWLC Reacts to One of Two Proposed Title IX Rules Advancing to OIRA for Final Review
Washington DC — The Education Department has sent one of two proposed Title IX rules to OIRA for final review and approval.
In response, Shiwali Patel, Director of Justice for Student Survivors & Senior Counsel, issued the following statement:
“We are pleased that one part of the long-awaited Title IX rule is progressing to OIRA for final review. This is a pivotal step towards ensuring that students are protected from sex-based harassment, and that LGBTQIA+ and pregnant and parenting students have clearer protections against discrimination. We urge the Biden administration to move quickly to finalize and implement this rule, as students have waited far too long for these restored and strengthened protections. However, despite this positive momentum, we are deeply concerned that only one of the proposed Title IX rules has moved to OIRA.
The Biden Administration also pledged to safeguard the rights of trans, non-binary, and intersex student athletes, and it must fulfill its promise. With policies in over 20 states banning them from participating in sports consistent with their gender identity, those students urgently need safeguards for equal access to school sports. The administration must take immediate action to ensure all students are guaranteed an educational environment free from discrimination. Students are depending on the administration, and trans, nonbinary, and intersex kids cannot be left behind.”