[News] [MT, USA] State doesn't have authority to set MT transgender student policies

[Stephanie Stevens]

KPAX, MT, USA


Posted: Jun 23, 2016 2:11 PM EST
Updated: Jun 23, 2016 2:11 PM EST

State doesn't have authority to set MT transgender student policies

By MTN News
 

[Video]

HELENA - The Montana State Board of Public Education's attorney says the state does not have the authority to implement policies on the issues of transgender students.

During a Wednesday legislative committee hearing at the Statehouse in Helena, the board's attorney said that it is left up to individual school districts to make sure policies are in line with Title IX -- a rule that essentially makes it illegal for schools to discriminate on the basis of sex.

Earlier this year, the Obama administration sent a 'guideline' letter to all school districts saying Title IX allows students to use the bathroom they self identify with, not their biological sex. If schools are found to be violating title nine, the could lose federal education funds.

During the meeting, lawmakers were told every district in the state has a Title IX policy in place.

RELATED: MCPS transgender bathroom policy explained

RELATED: Comment sought on proposed Kalispell schools gender discrimination policy


© KPAX.com 2016, KPAX.com. All rights reserved.

http://www.kpax.com/story/32293147/state-doesnt-have-authority-to-set-mt-transgender-student-policies