DOJ Threatens California Schools Over Transgender Athlete Policy

California Schools Face Legal Threat Over Transgender Athlete Policy California public schools are facing potential legal action from the US Department of Justice (DOJ) for allowing transgender students to participate in sports. The controversy ignited after a transgender girl, AB Hernandez, won the girls' triple jump and high jump at the California State Track and Field Championships. The DOJ sent a memo to school districts affiliated with the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF), warning of potential legal liability due to the CIF's policy allowing transgender students to participate based on their gender identity. President Trump weighed in on the matter, stating in a social media post: "A Biological Male competed in California Girls State Finals, WINNING BIG, despite the fact that they were warned by me not to do so. As Governor Gavin Newsom fully understands, large scale fines will be imposed!!!" US Attorney Bill Alely believes California is violating Title IX, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs receiving federal funding. "They're denying girls those opportunities, and that's exactly what Title IX was designed to prohibit." said Alely. The CIF announced a new policy last week allowing transgender athletes to participate, a decision made before President Trump's comments. The June 9th deadline looms, and school districts await guidance from California's Department of Education. Political scientist Melissa Michelson noted precedent for a governor pushing back, citing a recent case in Maine. She highlighted the uncertainty surrounding Governor Newsom's response, whether he will stand up to Trump or seek a compromise.