The Trump administration is launching a federal inquiry into California’s Department of Education after complaints that school districts are concealing information on the gender identities of students from parents. The investigation was launched under suspicion that state policies are potentially treading on federal law by making it easier for students to transition at school but concealing the issue from parents.
Federal Investigation Spawns Disputes
The investigation, as per an announcement by the U.S. Department of Education on Thursday, opens the door to a potential conflict with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The federal law permits parents to access their children’s education records, including details about their well-being. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated that parents must be the final decision-makers regarding their children’s sexual orientation and mental health, terming California’s practice potentially immoral and illegal under federal law.
California’s Protection of LGBTQ+ Students Act
California’s bill, signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2022, is to shield LGBTQ+ and transgender students by not allowing schools to out them to their parents without their consent. The bill, referred to as Assembly Bill 1955, was especially a reaction to conservative school boards that had voted to pass parental notification legislation concerning the gender identity of students. The bill supporters contend that the bill is imperative in protecting LGBTQ+ students’ safety and privacy and providing them with a secure school climate without fear of being rejected by their families.
Potential Consequences for California
The investigation comes with serious penalties, such as potential loss of federal funds for California schools. The state receives nearly $8 billion each year from the U.S. Department of Education, yet officials have reported some payments to have been delayed or rejected already due to the controversy. State Superintendent Tony Thurmond is a strong supporter of the law and refers to protecting student safety as well as expressing concern over the well-being of LGBTQ+ students.
Political Blowback for California Democrats
In a caustic press release, Democratic Assembly Member Chris Ward, sponsor of the bill, denounced the investigation as unconstitutional efforts to meddle with tax dollars. Ward argued that the law does not muzzle parental participation but protects LGBTQ+ students’ rights and health. The probe is the most recent showdown between the Trump administration and California regarding issues ranging from immigration to educational policy.
