The DOJ alleges that Maine violated Title IX by allowing transgender girls, who are biologically male, to compete in girls' and women's sports, which they claim deprives female athletes of fair competition, equal athletic opportunities, and exposes them to increased risks of physical injury and psychological harm.

Governor Janet Mills has rebuked the lawsuit as federal overreach, defending Maine’s policy as a matter of states' rights and constitutional law. She warned other states to prepare for similar federal actions and vowed to vigorously defend Maine in court.

Attorney General Pam Bondi indicated that Massachusetts and Minnesota are likely next in line for scrutiny and possible legal action by the DOJ for their policies related to transgender athletes, signaling a broader federal crackdown on state policies that allow transgender girls to compete in women's sports.

Female athletes like Cassidy Carlisle have spoken out against Maine's policy, describing it as unfair and harmful to female athletes. She emphasized the need to protect opportunities for girls in sports and expressed heartbreak that the state is willing to put female athletes at jeopardy.

Prior to the DOJ lawsuit, Maine faced federal funding freezes, including the withholding of funds for school nutrition programs by the USDA. Maine sued to restore these funds, and a federal judge ordered the funding to be reinstated.