Story perspectives

Rhode Island AG Leads Lawsuit Against HHS Over Discriminatory Funding

1/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha and 11 other state AGs sue the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over discriminatory funding conditions.
They say the 'Gender Conditions' violate Title IX and threaten billions in health funding.
The group argues HHS lacks authority to enforce the conditions.
This filing is Neronha's first in 2026 and his 47th against the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump since January 2025.

History

Historical Context

Title IX, enacted in 1972, prohibits sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs, significantly impacting gender equity in schools. Following the 1984 Supreme Court ruling in Grove City College v. Bell, which limited Title IX's scope, the 1988 Civil Rights Restoration Act expanded its coverage. The current lawsuit by Rhode Island's Attorney General challenges the enforcement of 'Gender Conditions,' reflecting ongoing debates over gender identity and federal funding.

1 of 2

Story summary

Rhode Island Attorney General Peter Neronha and 11 other state AGs sue the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services over discriminatory funding conditions.
They say the 'Gender Conditions' violate Title IX and threaten billions in health funding.
The group argues HHS lacks authority to enforce the conditions.
This filing is Neronha's first in 2026 and his 47th against the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump since January 2025.

1 / 2