California under investigation by Trump admin for allegedly hiding ‘gender identity’ of kids

The U.S. Department of Education has launched an investigation into the California Department of Education for allegedly violating the Family Educational Rights Privacy Act (FERPA). This investigation comes after a new California law was put into effect, prohibiting schools from disclosing a child’s “gender identity” to their parents.

FERPA ensures that parents have the right to access their children’s educational information, including interactions with school employees regarding gender identity and mental health. Education Secretary Linda McMahon expressed concern over California schools hiding crucial information about a student’s well-being from parents and guardians.

California Governor Gavin Newsom’s spokesperson, Elana Ross, reassured that parents still have full access to their student’s education records as required by federal law. Ross also mentioned that the investigation could be easily resolved by reading the law that the Governor signed.

Assembly Bill 1955 was signed into law by Newsom last year, preventing schools from disclosing information related to a student’s sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression without the student’s consent. This law aims to protect students from being forcibly outed and to ensure that teachers and staff do not interfere with parent-child relationships.

McMahon also sent a warning to Newsom regarding compliance with federal law on transgender athletes competing in women’s sports. The Secretary of Education stressed the importance of protecting sex-separated spaces and activities to prevent Title IX violations and loss of federal funding.

In a viral clip, Newsom admitted that it is “deeply unfair” to have biological males compete against female athletes. However, he did not condemn a trans athlete in California who had success in female track competitions. Turning Point USA founder Charlie Kirk praised McMahon for holding Newsom and California accountable, urging the Governor to take action.

President Donald Trump previously issued an executive order barring trans athletes from competing in women’s sports, citing concerns about fairness and safety for women and girls. This order reversed the federal policy recognizing only two genders, which was established by the Biden administration.

The ongoing investigation and warnings from the Department of Education highlight the ongoing debate over transgender rights and the protection of women’s sports. It remains to be seen how California will respond to these federal mandates and whether changes will be made to comply with the law.