U.S. Supreme Court Approves Affirmative Action Ban

The U.S. Supreme Court upheld Michigan’s prohibition on consideration of race in university admissions this week. This does not bar affirmative action completely, but leaves the decision in the hands of voters. In 2003 the Court upheld the use of affirmative action, with greater restrictions, in college admissions in two cases involving the University of Michigan. After the ruling, Michigan voters approved a constitutional amendment in 2006 that banned affirmative action in the state.

Opponents believe the decision would hinder the chances of minorities to gain access to a college education. Attorney General Bill Schuette, the plaintiff in the decision, hailed the ruling as a victory for the Constitution, the people of Michigan and for the rule of law.

A majority opinion written by Justice Anthony Kennedy noted that the ban was permissible because the proposal was not designed to harm or prevent injury, but to deal with the question of whether race-based admission policies could be continued. Justices Breyer and Scalia also wrote concurring opinions.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, April 25, 2014 10:52 AM
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