USDA Restores Funding to University of Maine System After Title IX Dispute

Washington, D.C.,: Reversing a significant policy, the Trump administration has returned all U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funding to the University of Maine System, therefore ending a period of uncertainty endangering important research and community projects. A federal compliance assessment on the university’s treatment of transgender athletes in women’s sports had earlier suspended the money.

Background: Evaluating Title IX Compliance
The problem started on February 22, 2025 when the USDA started a Title IX compliance investigation into the University of Maine System. The inquiry concentrated on whether the university’s policy permitting transgender women to participate in women’s sports violated a recently issued executive order signed by President Donald Trump. Federal laws known as Title IX forbid sex-based discrimination in educational institutions run on government grants.

USDA money was stopped following the inquiry, sparking questions regarding the effects on agriculture, research, and educational initiatives backed by the University of Maine. After weeks of confusion, Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine) verified that the money had now been completely restored.

Important programs funded by USDA saved
Programs crucial to Maine’s economy, research facilities, and local communities are supported by USDA financing across a broad spectrum. Among these are studies on PFAS pollution of the surroundings looking at dangerous “forever chemicals”.
% Agricultural studies; investigate building materials, blueberries, apples, and potatoes.
✅ UMaine Tick Lab: Dealing with Maine’s growing risk from tick-borne illnesses.
The 4-H Program — Encouragement of young agricultural and scientific development.
✅ Aquaculture and forestry alliances – supplying Maine’s farmers, loggers, and fisheries businesses with vital supplies.

“This USDA funding is critically important not only to the University of Maine but also to our farmers, loggers, and those working in Maine’s agriculture, aquaculture, and forestry industries,” Senator Collins said, stressing their economic significance.

General Janet Mills Approaches the Choice
Emphasizing its effect on students, professors, and the larger community, Maine Governor Janet Mills also expressed relief at the financial return.

“The Governor welcomes USDA’s choice to provide the University of Maine System funding once more. For many workers, students, and professors who rely on that money to promote innovative research and development, get ready for careers in Maine, and significantly benefit our rural towns and economy, Gov. Mills said in a statement.

End of a Month-Long Conflict
The USDA’s ruling ends a months-long debate on the Trump administration’s stance on transgender athletes attending colleges. The executive order is still in effect, but the financial restoration guarantees that important Maine economic initiatives and research projects will go on without disturbance.

The announcement gives students, researchers, and farmers depending on these programs much-needed consistency and a fresh emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and economic development all over the state.