AUGUSTA, Maine — The Maine Attorney General’s Office has responded to a lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice concerning compliance with Title IX in the state’s educational institutions. In its legal defense, Maine contends it has at least seven bases for contesting the federal government’s claims.
The state’s response alludes to a recent tense exchange between President Donald Trump and Governor Janet Mills at the White House on February 21. During this encounter, Trump threatened to cut federal funding to Maine unless it adhered to his executive order from February 5, which restricts transgender girls and women from participating in female sports. Mills asserted her administration’s commitment to following both state and federal laws, defiantly stating, “We’ll see you in court.”
Maine’s legal argument emphasizes that Trump’s executive order cannot modify federal law or redefine the term “sex” to solely mean biological sex, excluding gender identity. The state’s filing also highlights concerns about the Justice Department’s investigation, claiming it was conducted in just four days without any engagement with the Department of Education, leaving no opportunity for the state to respond or provide relevant documents.
Additionally, the Attorney General’s Office argues that the DOJ’s actions violate fundamental constitutional principles, such as equal protection, due process, and the separation of powers. In light of these arguments, Maine is requesting the court to dismiss the DOJ’s claims and award any appropriate relief.
A spokesperson for the Justice Department declined to comment on Maine’s legal filing, referencing only earlier statements made by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi. The investigation into Maine’s Title IX compliance stemmed from findings by the Offices for Civil Rights within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education, both citing violations. These issues escalated when Maine opted not to sign resolution agreements offered by the federal agencies.
In April, Bondi publicly announced the filing of a civil lawsuit against Maine, citing the state’s failure to comply with federal regulations concerning Title IX. Recently, Mills and Attorney General Aaron Frey celebrated a separate legal settlement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture over similar funding concerns.
On Thursday, a scheduling order was filed by the presiding judge, who indicated the case could be prepared for trial by December 3 of this year.
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