New Title IX revisions released by the Biden administration in April are making waves in schools, colleges, and universities across the country. The rules seek to offer more protection to students suffering from sex-based discrimination and harassment. They also require schools to act more swiftly when alleged discrimination happens.

As a student, you should know what these new rules mean for you. It's important to understand what your rights are at school and how you can stand up to your educational institution if those rights are trampled on. If you're experiencing discrimination or harassment as an LGBTQ+ student, you should contact the Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team. We can ensure you know your rights and help you deal with your school's administration. Call 888-535-3686 or submit our contact form to get more information.

New Title IX Rules Expand Definition of Harassment

In April 2024, the Biden Administration introduced revised regulations to Title IX, the federal law banning sex discrimination at federally funded schools. Specifically, the definition of sex-based discrimination and harassment now includes discrimination based on sex stereotypes, pregnancy or related conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity, and sex characteristics. The law already included protections for gender identity and sexuality, but now it's more explicit.

The new rules also require schools to take “prompt and effective action” to end sex discrimination when it occurs. They must also publish new nondiscrimination policies by August 1, 2024, that explicitly state that the school doesn't discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any program or activity that it operates. Along with this new policy, schools must also give a “notice of nondiscrimination” to students, parents, guardians, employees, applicants for admission or employment, and all unions and professional organizations with contracts or agreements with the school.

What Do the New Title IX Rules Mean for Students?

If you are an LGBTQ+ student, these new rules should offer you more protection at school. They should provide you with a more solid legal basis if you claim that your school is discriminating against you. You can now argue that your school is breaking Title IX rules, which has strict consequences for educational institutions, as it holds them accountable at the federal level.

What to Do If You're Dealing with Sex-Based Harassment at School

Starting in August this year, your school will have a federal mandate to respect your rights as a student. One of those rights is an education free from harassment and discrimination. If this right isn't being respected, you should contact our Education Law Team at the Lento Law Firm. We help LGBTQ+ students ensure they get equal treatment at school and that all anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws are implemented properly. We can deal with your school administrators for you and provide legal advice on your situation at every step of the process.

Call our offices today at 888-535-3686 to schedule a consultation. You can also send us your information via our online form, and a member of our team will reach out to you.