Maine Files Federal Lawsuit Against USDA Over Funding Freeze Tied to Transgender Athlete Policy

The state seeks a restraining order to halt what it calls an unlawful freeze on funds for child nutrition programs, as the Trump administration defends the action under Title IX compliance.

Maine Attorney General Aaron Frey filed a federal lawsuit challenging the USDA's funding freeze, which the Trump administration imposed over the state's transgender athlete policy.
The lawsuit argues the freeze unlawfully withholds funds critical to feeding children and vulnerable adults, despite USDA claims that food programs remain unaffected.
USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins justified the freeze, stating Maine's policy allowing transgender athletes in girls' sports violates Title IX anti-discrimination laws.
Maine is seeking a temporary restraining order to restore access to federal funds while the court evaluates the legality of the freeze.
This legal battle underscores broader national debates over transgender rights in sports, federal overreach, and the balance between state and federal authority.

Portland Press Herald