Attorney General Pam Bondi has issued warnings to California, Maine, and Minnesota, demanding compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws that mandate the exclusion of biological males from women’s sports.
In letters sent to the attorneys general of these states, Bondi emphasized the Department of Justice’s commitment to enforcing these laws and holding non-compliant states accountable.
Bondi made it clear: “This Department of Justice will hold accountable states and state entities that violate federal law…Indeed, we have already begun to do so.”
Bondi highlighted that these states’ athletic associations have publicly stated their intention to continue allowing biological males to compete in women’s sports, contrary to federal directives. She specifically noted that Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison issued a legal opinion suggesting that prohibiting such participation would violate state law.
“We also stand ready to sue states and state entities that defy federal anti-discrimination laws,” Bondi added. “If the Department of Education’s investigation shows that the Federation is indeed denying girls an equal opportunity to participate in sports and athletic events by requiring them to compete against boys, the Department of Justice stands ready to take all appropriate action to enforce federal law.”
Similarly, California and Maine are under investigation by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights for policies that may deny girls equal opportunities in sports by requiring them to compete against biological males.
The Attorney General made it clear that failure to comply could result in legal action or the termination of federal funding. Bondi stated, “The Department of Justice does not want to have to sue states or state entities, or seek termination of their federal funds.” She urged these states to align their policies with federal law to ensure fair competition and equal opportunities for female athletes.
