WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Tuesday aimed at barring transgender women from competing in women’s sports at federally funded schools, threatening institutions with investigations and potential loss of funding for violations of Title IX.
“We are putting every school receiving taxpayer dollars on notice: If you let men take over women’s sports teams or invade your locker rooms, you will be investigated for violations of Title IX and risk your federal funding,” Trump said.
The order argues that allowing transgender women to compete in women’s sports is “demeaning, unfair, and dangerous to women and girls,” and mandates that federal funds be rescinded from educational programs that permit such participation.
In Delaware, Republican lawmakers who previously pushed for similar legislation praised the order. State Sen. Bryant Richardson (R-Seaford), who twice introduced a “Fairness in Girls’ Sports Act” that was blocked in committee, said he hopes the state will comply with Trump’s directive.
“I hope Delaware falls in line and honors this executive order from the president,” Richardson said.
The failed Delaware bill had been backed by GOP legislators who expressed concerns over potential lost opportunities for female athletes in scholarships and competition. “These are girls who strive hard to be the best, some working many hours a day, seven days a week to perfect their skills,” said Rep. Tim Dukes (R-Laurel), who led the bill in the state’s House of Representatives.
The executive order marks a significant shift in federal policy on transgender athletes, setting up potential legal battles over its enforcement.
Trump’s order escalates the national debate over transgender participation in sports, putting federal funding on the line for schools that allow it.
