NORTHAMPTON

The U.S. Department of Education announced May 4 that it has opened a Title IX investigation into Smith College over the school’s policy allowing transgender women to enroll at the historically women’s college. 

In a statement announcing the investigation, the department said it is examining whether Title IX exemptions for women’s colleges apply solely on the basis of biological sex. Smith College, which has admitted transgender women since 2015, said it remains committed to supporting all students and complying with civil rights laws.

PROVIDENCE, R.I. 

A federal judge ordered Rhode Island Hospital on May 1 to comply with a U.S. Department of Justice subpoena seeking records related to gender-affirming medical care for minors.

The Justice Department said the records are part of an ongoing federal investigation involving transgender health care practices. Hospital officials have not publicly detailed the scope of the subpoena.

PROVINCETOWN

Provincetown tourism and LGBTQ advocacy groups have launched initiatives aimed at attracting younger LGBTQ visitors amid concerns about rising travel costs and declining participation from younger generations.

Local organizations said the efforts include subsidized travel opportunities and expanded programming ahead of the 2026 summer and Pride season.