Washington D.C. - The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today that it will investigate multiple universities within the state of California to determine if their admissions policies are in compliance with federal law. The investigation centers on whether these institutions are considering race as a factor in admissions, despite California's longstanding ban on affirmative action, which prohibits the use of race, ethnicity, or gender in public university admissions.
According to a DOJ spokesperson, the investigation was prompted by concerns that some universities may be circumventing the state's ban and illegally considering race in their admissions decisions. The investigation will involve reviewing university admissions policies, application materials, and other relevant documents. The DOJ will also be interviewing university officials and students.
"Our goal is to ensure that all students have an equal opportunity to be admitted to college, regardless of their race or ethnicity," said a DOJ official. "We are committed to enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws and protecting the rights of all students."
California banned affirmative action in 1996 with the passage of Proposition 209. However, concerns have persisted that some universities may be using subtle methods to consider race in admissions. This investigation is part of a broader effort by the DOJ to scrutinize university admissions policies across the country and ensure compliance with federal law.
Justice Department Probes California Universities' Admissions Policies
The Justice Department is launching an investigation into several California universities regarding their admissions practices. Despite a state ban on affirmative action passed decades ago, the federal government will examine whether race is still a factor in admissions decisions. The probe aims to ensure compliance with federal anti-discrimination laws. This action follows similar scrutiny of university admissions policies nationwide.