Notable 2024 Title IX changes
New definition of sexual harassment
- 2020: “unwelcomed verbal, visual or physical sexual conduct”
- 2024: “unwelcome sex-based conduct”
New protections for LGBTQ+ students
- 2020: No protections specified.
- 2024: LGBTQ+ students cannot be discriminated against based on sexual orientation, gender identity or sex characteristics.
Expanded protections for pregnant students, employees and applicants
New regulations strengthen requirements for schools to provide reasonable opportunities for employees and students who are pregnant, or related conditions.
- Pregnant students will have more reasonable opportunities to make up classwork due to medically related absences.
- Employers must allow for reasonable break times for lactation. Students and employees are both entitled to clean, private spaces for lactation.
Live hearings and cross-examinations
- 2020: Complainants must complete a live hearing and cross-examination section as a part of the formal resolution process.
- 2024: Complainants are no longer required to complete a live hearing and cross-examination section as a part of the formal resolution process.
Actionable complaints
- 2020: Title IX offices require formal written complaints to take action.
- 2024: Title IX offices can take action without a formal written complaint.
