Federal judge dismisses NCAA transgender athlete lawsuit

A federal district judge has dismissed a lawsuit brought by former college athlete Riley Gaines and the Independent Council on Women’s Sports (ICONS) against the NCAA regarding its transgender athlete policies.

U.S. District Judge Tiffany R. Johnson ruled that the NCAA cannot be sued for violating Title IX because the organization does not directly receive federal funding. The judge rejected arguments that the NCAA is subject to the regulations because its 1,100-plus member institutions receive federal education dollars and are required to comply with Title IX.

In response, Riley Gaines announced plans to appeal the decision, stating the setback will not deter efforts to hold the NCAA accountable. Concerned Women for America (CWA) also criticized the ruling, calling it “appalling and inexcusable” and urging Congress to pass the Protect College Sports Act to address what they describe as a disconnect between the NCAA’s policies and federal civil rights law.