Maine universities exclude transgender athletes from women's sports

The University of Maine System has agreed to comply with President Trump's executive order that keeps transgender athletes out of women's sports. This decision follows a temporary pause in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) due to controversy over trans participation in sports. The USDA announced that the University of Maine System is now in full compliance with the order. This comes after the USDA reviewed Title IX requirements, which aim to ensure equal opportunities for women and girls in sports. The USDA emphasized that any misinformation from the university could result in serious financial consequences. Chancellor Dannel Malloy expressed relief over the agreement, stating that the university has always followed state and federal laws. He noted that the USDA has provided significant funding, including nearly $30 million for research in fiscal year 2024. The NCAA has also updated its policies to prohibit athletes born male from competing in women's events. The tension between state officials and the Trump administration escalated when Trump threatened to cut funding if Maine did not comply with the new rules. Governor Janet Mills criticized this approach and mentioned potential legal action against the Trump administration. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has concluded that Maine violated Title IX by allowing trans athletes in girls' sports. They warned of further actions if compliance is not achieved.