WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services said Monday that Minnesota violated federal sex discrimination law by letting male athletes compete in girls’ sports.
The agencies said the Minnesota Department of Education and the Minnesota State High School League broke Title IX by allowing male students to play on girls’ teams and use girls’ facilities.
Federal officials pointed to cases in skiing, lacrosse, track, volleyball, and softball. They cited one softball player from Champlin Park High School who helped lead a girls’ team to a state championship.
The agencies have given Minnesota 10 days to change its policies or face enforcement action. Proposed steps include revising state guidance, restoring records and titles to female athletes, and requiring schools to certify Title IX compliance each year.
Title IX bars sex discrimination in schools and programs that receive federal money.
For more detailed information, visit these U.S. Department of Education press releases:
U.S. DOE and DOJ announce Title IX special investigations team
U.S. DOE launches Title IX investigations into two athletic associations
U.S. DOE elevates two Minnesota investigations to Title IX special investigations team
