The Department of Justice (DOJ) is currently examining other school districts for potential breaches of federal parental rights laws. Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon discussed these investigations with Fox News Digital, highlighting that the first lawsuit recently filed against Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools (KCKPS) is just the beginning.
The DOJ filed a lawsuit against KCKPS, alleging violations of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) and the Protection of Pupil Rights Amendment (PPRA). The focus is on a district policy permitting ‘secret gender transitions’ for students without parental awareness or approval.
No, we’re not waiting. We ask for documents, investigate, and try to resolve cases with school districts. If unresolved, we file lawsuits—and more are contemplated and ongoing.
Harmeet Dhillon made this statement when asked about additional actions against other districts. She did not specify which districts are under investigation.
The lawsuit against KCKPS targets guidance for transgender and gender non-conforming students. The guidance allegedly lets students exclude parents from specific school plans and prevents the disclosure of their gender identity to parents.
KCKPS claims compliance with federal law, opposing DOJ’s allegations. They intend to defend their position in court and avoid further comment during ongoing litigation.
According to the DOJ, these school plans are education records under FERPA. Excluding parents from these discussions can prevent them from reviewing or challenging these records.
The DOJ is also scrutinizing the district’s compliance with PPRA, as students can participate in meetings that might expose sensitive details without prior parental consent.
A FERPA investigation began in August 2025, with the federal government advising KCKPS on violations. However, the DOJ maintains that the district has not voluntarily complied, prompting legal action.
The DOJ seeks a federal court ruling to declare these practices unlawful and block the enforcement of such district policies. Dhillon emphasized a clear warning to all U.S. school districts regarding FERPA and PPRA adherence, vowing to defend parental and student rights.