Dear Vincent,

Well this is a very complicated issue that can't easily be answered.  I recommend checking out this link here which has a good explanation.

http://www.adoremus.org/97-03_pokorsky.htm

Simplified, here is what Rome has said in the document "Paschales Solemnitatis" which is SUPPOSED to be the highest authority.

51. The washing of the feet of chosen men [viri selecti] which, according to tradition, is performed on this day, represents the service and charity of Christ, who came "not to be served, but to serve." [58] This tradition should be maintained, and its proper significance explained.

Anyone who is able to read can clearly see that specifically men are called.

Here's what the United States bishops have said in 1987 regarding the custom of inviting women:

While this variation may differ from the rubric of the Sacramentary, which mentions only men (vir selecti), it may nevertheless be said that the intention to emphasize service along with charity in the celebration of the rite is an understandable way of accentuating the evangelical command of the Lord, "who came to serve and not to be served", that all members of the church must serve one another in love. (BCL Newsletter, February 1987, Volume XXIII)

Now I don't really want to get myself into too much trouble, but the local bishops do not have the authority to make such a change without prior approval from Rome.  As far as I know, there has never been any such approval.

Like I said though, please check out the above link, there is a very detailed explanation and commentary there.  In my opinion a must read for anyone involved in Liturgy.

Mr. Slavek