Carroll ISD files lawsuit against Title IX gender identity rules, requests delay in enforcement date

Attorneys representing Carroll Independent School District (ISD) were in court on Monday, filing a lawsuit over impending changes to Title IX that will introduce protections for gender identity. The district is seeking to delay the enforcement date for these changes, which are set to take effect on August 1. The lawsuit, brought against the Biden administration, challenges the redefinition of "sex" in Title IX to include gender identity, a move aimed at extending protections to LGBTQ+ students. Carroll ISD argues that these changes could compromise the safety and security of its students, particularly in facilities like bathrooms and locker rooms, as well as in athletic competitions. During the court hearing, Alliance Defending Freedom attorney Mathew Hoffman, representing Carroll ISD, emphasized the district's concerns about the impact of the Title IX changes. School Board President Cam Bryan highlighted the district's stance on the lawsuit, stating that it is primarily about safeguarding the rights and privacy of female students from potential infringements by students of a different gender identity. The district's position has garnered support from some Southlake parents, who voiced their approval at a recent school board meeting, with no public opposition reported. Hoffman underscored the financial implications for Carroll ISD, noting that accommodating the new regulations could result in significant costs for the district, which employs around 1,200 staff members. The district anticipates having to make adjustments to comply with the revised Title IX guidelines, should they come into effect as scheduled. Following the court proceedings, no immediate action was taken at a special school board meeting held on Monday night, with the district awaiting the judge's decision on their request to delay the enforcement of the Title IX changes. The outcome of this legal battle will have far-reaching implications for how educational institutions address gender identity and equality under Title IX moving forward.