Anti-Affirmative Action Threats in the States: 1997-2004

Americans for a Fair Chance - June 2005

In light of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2003 decision in the University of Michigan affirmative action cases (Grutter v. Bollinger, Gratz v. Bollinger), colleges and universities are continuing to assess their admissions policies to determine if these policies comport with the ruling.

The Grutter decision has galvanized opponents who have increased their efforts to end affirmative action programs in the states. In doing so, opponents have sought help from the federal government to support their efforts.

This report provides an overview of threats from 1997-2004, including legislation/resolutions (28 states), ballot initiative campaigns (3 states), and state executive orders (1 state).