The Supreme Court voted 5-4 on Friday to reject a Biden administration emergency request to enforce portions of a new rule that includes protections from discrimination for transgender students under Title IX. The request aimed to allow biological men in women’s bathrooms, locker rooms, and dorms in 10 states where state and local rules prevent it.
The rule, issued in April, clarified that Title IX’s ban on 'sex' discrimination covers gender identity, sexual orientation, and pregnancy-related conditions. Effective August 1, the rule expanded the definition of discrimination based on sex to include gender identity.
More than two dozen Republican attorneys general sued over the rule, arguing it would conflict with state laws blocking transgender students from women’s sports. The Biden administration contended the rule did not address athletic eligibility, but experts presented evidence suggesting otherwise.
The court's decision dealt a blow to the administration's efforts for transgender inclusion. Justice Neil Gorsuch dissented, agreeing with the Biden administration that lower court rulings were 'overbroad.'
Recently, 102 female athletes and 26 states petitioned the Supreme Court over state laws banning transgender women from competing against biological females. They argued that physical tests show differences between men and women at all ages.
The athletes expressed the pain and humiliation of competing against transgender athletes in women's sports, calling it public shaming and exclusion from their own category. Various sports figures have also criticized allowing transgender athletes in women's sports.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court's decision highlights the ongoing debate over transgender rights and women's sports, reflecting the complex legal and societal issues at play.
