WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Department of Education is repealing a Bush-era policy that some critics say weakened federal law providing equal opportunities for female athletes.
Schools and colleges must now provide stronger evidence that they offer equal opportunities for athletic participation under the federal Title IX gender equity law.
It reverses a 2005 policy under former President George W. Bush that allowed schools to use just a survey to prove a lack of interest in starting a new women's sport. Non-response to questionnaires was considered a sign of disinterest.
Education Secretary Arne Duncan says discrimination continues to exist in college athletic programs and that the Obama administration will be vigilant about enforcing the law.
The Education Department has sent letters about the change in policy to more than 15,600 school districts and 5,600 college and university presidents.
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High school girls play volleyball, with TITLE IX lettering, finished graphic
