Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance: Update on Title IX Regulations

On April 19, 2024, the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights released new Title IX regulations (2024 regulations), replacing the previous 2020 regulations. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any education program or activity that receives federal financial assistance. Creighton’s Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance (T9-CRC) oversees the University’s compliance with Title IX, including addressing all reports of sexual harassment and sex discrimination.

The 2024 regulations expanded protections for sex discrimination, added pregnancy protections for students and updated adjudication procedures. T9-CRC has been working collaboratively since April to update the University’s Title IX policies and procedures, before the Aug. 1, 2024, implementation date. 

Current Legal Challenges and Impact to Creighton

Nebraska joined North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa, Arkansas and Missouri in asking a federal court to issue an injunction blocking the 2024 regulations from taking effect. The court issued the injunction on July 26, 2024. Due to legal challenges, the 2024 regulations are not currently enforceable in Nebraska, including at Creighton University. 

Approximately 700 schools and colleges across all 50 states are currently impacted by an injunction.

Current Policies and Procedures in Effect

Creighton will continue to use the policies established in 2020, which are currently in place that prohibit sexual harassment and sex discrimination. During this time of legal uncertainty, T9-CRC will continue to work closely with the Office of the General Counsel to ensure the office remains compliant with Title IX.

Mindful that the injunction could be lifted, in whole or in part, at any moment, Creighton has revised its Title IX policy and can implement it immediately, should the 2024 regulations become effective in Nebraska.

Additionally, Creighton is finalizing a student pregnancy policy that provides protections and reasonable accommodations for pregnant or parenting students. T9-CRC will oversee the new student pregnancy policy.

Creighton University remains committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment, free from harassment and discrimination. The Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance continues to be available to assist any individual who may have concerns regarding sex discrimination and sexual harassment, including sexual assault, dating/domestic violence, and stalking.  To make a report to the office, please call 402-280-3189 or email titleix@creighton.edu. Additionally, reports can be made online at Tell Someone (creighton.edu).

Creighton’s Violence Intervention and Prevention (VIP) Center provides free confidential advocacy to individuals impacted by sex discrimination and sexual harassment. To contact an advocate, call 402-280-3794 or email vipcenter@creighton.edu.

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Title IX and Civil Rights Compliance or visit their website.