ORONO, Maine – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking into the University of Maine’s compliance with federal regulations. This review was sparked after the state chose not to adhere to an executive order from former President Trump concerning transgender athletes in women’s sports.
The USDA sent a notification about the investigation to local officials, including Governor Janet Mills and Chancellor Danell Malloy of the University of Maine System.
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasized that taxpayer money should not support institutions that fail to uphold equal treatment for women. She stated that any institution ignoring the executive order might face cuts in future funding.
This investigation follows changes by the NCAA to its policies on transgender athletes to align with the executive order.
The University of Maine is a land-grant institution and receives over $100 million in funding from the USDA. For it to keep receiving this funding, it must comply with federal laws.
A representative from the University of Maine commented on the situation, stating that they were aware of the USDA’s letter and noted it did not accuse them of any wrongdoing. They affirmed their commitment to following all state and federal laws and cooperating with the review.
Source link
maine mall