Important new federal Department of Education regulations took effect nationwide on Aug. 1, strengthening protections against sex discrimination and harassment in public schools under Title IX.

The 2024 rule updates make clear that Title IX prohibits discrimination and harassment based on sexual orientation, gender identity and sex characteristics. The regulations include vital protections for LGBTQ+ students and pregnant or parenting students. They require schools to take prompt, effective action in response to sex-based discrimination, including harassment, and delineate the steps schools must take to guarantee due process for all parties.