A federal judge in the Central District of California dismissed the U.S. Department of Justice’s lawsuit challenging the state's policy that allows transgender girls to participate on girls’ school sports teams, leaving California’s rules intact for now.
Dismissal based on procedural grounds, not Title IX merits
U.S. District Judge Cynthia Valenzuela dismissed the case after finding the federal government had not adequately notified California that continued operation of its policy could jeopardize federal education funding. The decision did not rule on whether the state’s policy complies with Title IX, the federal law prohibiting sex discrimination in education.
The lawsuit, filed by the Department of Justice in July 2025, argued that California’s policy discriminates on the basis of sex by allowing transgender girls — referred to in some court filings as biological males — to compete on girls’ teams. The case was spearheaded by senior Justice Department officials overseeing civil rights enforcement under the Trump administration.
“We are disappointed by the Court's order and remain committed to enforcing President Trump's agenda of preventing boys from playing in girls' sports.”
That statement from a DOJ spokesperson, made after the ruling, said the department was evaluating options for appeal. The department also indicated it remains committed to challenging the policy.
Background and state policy
California has permitted students to participate in school athletics consistent with their gender identity since 2013, under Assembly Bill 1266 and subsequent state guidance. The state’s approach has been a focal point of national debate, drawing criticism from some conservative lawmakers and advocacy groups who argue that allowing transgender girls to compete on girls’ teams undermines the intent of Title IX and disadvantages cisgender female athletes.
Proponents of California’s policy, including civil rights and LGBTQ advocates, say the rules protect transgender students from discrimination and allow them to participate fully in school life, including athletics.
What the ruling means now
Because the judge dismissed the lawsuit on procedural grounds, the core legal question — whether California’s policy violates Title IX — remains unresolved. The dismissal leaves California schools able to continue current practices while the DOJ decides on appeal.
If the DOJ appeals, the case could return to federal court and potentially reach appellate courts. An appeal would keep the legal fight active and could produce a ruling that either clarifies how Title IX applies to transgender athletes or prompts further legal and policy changes at the federal or state level.
Local and statewide implications
The ruling preserves the status quo for California school districts and their athletic programs. Districts that have been following state guidance need not alter team eligibility rules immediately. But the possibility of an appeal means school administrators, coaches and athletes are likely to watch developments closely.
- Schools: May continue to permit transgender girls to play on girls’ teams under current state policy.
- DOJ: Has signaled it is considering an appeal, keeping litigation prospects open.
- Advocates: Both supporters and opponents of the policy will likely press for further legal or legislative action.
Key players named in the case
The Justice Department’s suit was led by officials who oversee civil rights enforcement in the current administration and included attorneys who have been vocal critics of California’s transgender-student policies. California has defended its rules as a measure to prevent sex-based discrimination.
| Party | Position in Case |
|---|---|
| U.S. Department of Justice | Plaintiff challenging California policy |
| State of California | Defendant; defending state policy |
| U.S. District Judge Cynthia Valenzuela | Dismissed case on procedural grounds |
The outcome preserves California’s approach for the near term. Yet the administration’s stated willingness to appeal means the issue could return to the courts, prolonging legal uncertainty for school districts and student-athletes across the state.
For now, California schools that have implemented policies allowing transgender students to participate in athletics consistent with gender identity can continue doing so while monitoring potential federal action.
Reporting from the Central District of California contributed to this article.
