USDA Freezes Federal Funding to Maine Over Title IX Transgender Policy Dispute
The Trump administration escalates its conflict with Maine, halting funding for school administrative and technological functions while reviewing broader education-related compliance.
- The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a freeze on federal funding for administrative and technological functions in Maine schools due to alleged Title IX violations.
- The freeze stems from Maine's refusal to comply with a February 2025 executive order banning transgender athletes from competing in women's sports.
- Governor Janet Mills has criticized the federal action as politically motivated, defending Maine's Human Rights Act, which protects transgender athletes' rights.
- The USDA clarified that federal food programs and direct assistance for Mainers will remain unaffected by the funding pause.
- The USDA is conducting a broader review of all education and research-related funding in Maine to ensure alignment with federal law and Trump administration priorities.