Which federal law prohibits sex discrimination in education programs receiving federal funds?

• A. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act
• B. Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972
• C. Equal Protection Clause
• D. Civil Rights Act of 1964

Answer: (B)

Sex discrimination in education programs that receive federal funds is prohibited by Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972. This law bars discrimination on the basis of sex in nearly all aspects of an education program or activity that receives federal financial assistance, including admissions, recruitment, academics, athletics, housing, and student services. It also covers sexual harassment and gender-based harassment when it interferes with a student’s ability to participate in or benefit from the program. Enforcement is through the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, which can require policy changes or even withhold federal funds for noncompliance. The other options don’t fit this specific context: Title VII covers employment discrimination, the Equal Protection Clause provides a constitutional framework rather than a targeted statutory remedy, and the Civil Rights Act of 1964 addresses nondiscrimination in broader contexts but not the particular provision about education programs receiving federal funds.