The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) announced a virtual public hearing scheduled for June 7, 2021, to June 11, 2021, to gather information for improving enforcement of Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
The hearing is part of OCR’s comprehensive review of the Department’s existing Title IX regulations and other actions to implement President Biden’s March 8 Executive Order on Guaranteeing an Educational Environment Free from Discrimination on the Basis of Sex, Including Sexual Orientation or Gender Identity. The hearing also helps the Department fulfill the directives of President Biden’s January 20 Executive Order on Preventing and Combating Discrimination on the Basis of Gender Identity or Sexual Orientation.
The public hearing is an opportunity for students, parents, educators, school staff, administrators, and other members of the public to provide input on additional changes to the Title IX regulations and Department guidance. The Department issued revised Title IX regulations in May 2020 that became effective in August 2020. Considering the recent changes, the Department wants to ensure students who experience sexual harassment receive appropriate support, schools provide fair processes for resolving sexual harassment complaints, and students who experience discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity are protected under Title IX.
For more information on the public hearing or to register to participate, visit OCR’s website.
NOTE:
Remember, an educational entity’s obligation to address sex- and gender-based harassment and discrimination stem from a variety of sources under federal and state law. If your school, college, or university needs assistance, please contact one of our five offices statewide. Learn more about LCW’s new Title IX compliance training program and other resources by visiting this page.