Governor Gavin Newsom suggests California universities explore giving preferential treatment to descendants of slaves but vetoed a bill that would mandate such preferences, calling it ‘unnecessary’ as universities already have the authority to do so.
Democratic Assemblyman Isaac Bryan introduced the legislation to address California’s role in slavery and promote reparations, but legal experts warned it could violate federal affirmative action laws.
Newsom vetoed several bills related to preferences for descendants of slaves, citing potential legal risks and increased costs to the state while emphasizing the need for careful consideration of admissions policies.