A federal judge has dismissed a lawsuit by the Department of Justice (DOJ) challenging California’s policies that permit biological male athletes to compete on girls’ school sports teams. This decision provoked strong reactions from advocates of girls’ sports who have vowed to continue their fight for fairness in athletics.
“We are disappointed by the Court’s order, and remain committed to enforcing President Trump’s agenda preventing boys from playing in girls’ sports,” said a DOJ spokesperson, highlighting their intention to explore appeal options.
Sophia Lorey, outreach director at California Family Council and a former college soccer player, expressed concern that the ruling did not address the fundamental Title IX issue regarding fairness for female athletes. Lorey noted that the court’s decision was based on procedural grounds, avoiding the central debate over biological fairness.
U.S. District Judge Cynthia Valenzuela based her ruling on administrative funding regulations. She found that the federal government had not provided California with explicit prior notice before threatening to withhold $44 billion in education funds.
The DOJ had initially sued the California Department of Education (CADOE) and California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) in July 2025. They alleged that the policies allowing transgender athletes to participate in girls’ sports discriminated against female athletes.
“California lawmakers have the power right now to protect female athletes.” Lorey urged action, emphasizing that the case dismissal does not change biological realities.
Sonja Shaw, a candidate for the California superintendent of public instruction, voiced strong opposition to the judge’s decision. She indicated that California parents remain determined to protect female athletes despite political challenges.
“This fight is not going away, and neither am I,” Shaw asserted, calling for continued advocacy.
The CIF opted not to comment on the dismissal, while the California Department of Education cited ongoing legal proceedings for their silence.
This legal battle gained further traction when transgender athlete AB Hernandez from Jurupa Valley High School won events at the state track championships, prompting scrutiny and reforms by CIF to safeguard positions for biological female athletes.