Today the U.S. Department of Education released its new Final Rule, or regulations, under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. The new regulations have an effective date of August 1, 2024.

University leaders are actively assessing the new Title IX regulations to gauge their potential impact on our existing policies and procedures. Our commitment to transparency and inclusivity with our campus community remains steadfast throughout this evaluation process, and we will be sharing regular updates and seeking input throughout this process. In the meantime, our current policies and procedures remain in full effect.

While we recognize the importance of the federal regulations, it's essential to note that MSU has long prioritized a comprehensive approach to addressing relationship violence and sexual misconduct. Our existing policy exceeds the minimum requirements outlined in the current federal Title IX regulations and is tailored to the specific needs of our campus community.

More information about the new Title IX regulations is available from the U.S. Department of Education at: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/newsroom.html

More information about Title IX at MSU is available at: civilrights.msu.edu

-Laura Rugless, vice president and Title IX coordinator of MSU’s Office for Civil Rights and Title IX Education and Compliance