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A victory in federal court for states challenging a policy from President Barack Obama’s administration on the use of bathrooms by transgender students in public schools.
The policy calls for schools to allow students use the bathroom corresponding to the gender they identify with. Those that fail to comply run the risk of losing federal funding under Title IX – a policy that covers sex discrimination. Wisconsin is one of 13 states that challenged the policy, arguing Title IX does not cover gender identity issues.
In a ruling issued Sunday, a federal judge in Texas put the policy on hold while the case proceeds.
Attorney General Brad Schimel said the decision blocks “the Obama administration’s efforts to re-write federal law without congressional approval.” He said the ruling is “a victory for the rule of law and a clear statement that the federal government cannot force states to comply with an illegal policy that directly conflicts with existing federal law.”
The case is now expected to proceed to trial.