H.R.2686 - University Accountability Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2686, the "University Accountability Act," aims to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose financial penalties on tax-exempt educational institutions found to have violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The bill introduces a penalty system based on civil rights violations determined by federal courts. It also mandates reviews of the tax-exempt status of institutions with repeated violations and requires detailed reporting of such violations.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment would likely lead to increased scrutiny of educational institutions' compliance with civil rights laws. Institutions could face significant financial penalties and potential loss of tax-exempt status for non-compliance. This may incentivize universities to strengthen their civil rights policies and enforcement mechanisms.
Potential Benefits
- Increased accountability for educational institutions regarding civil rights compliance.
- Potential deterrence of civil rights violations through financial penalties.
- Mandatory reviews could lead to improved institutional practices and policies.
- Enhanced transparency through required reporting of civil rights violations.
- Reinforces the importance of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden and costs for educational institutions.
- Risk of politically motivated or frivolous lawsuits targeting universities.
- Possible chilling effect on academic freedom and open discourse.
- Complexity in determining what constitutes a civil rights violation.
- Could disproportionately affect institutions with limited resources.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with constitutional principles of equal protection under the law, as it seeks to enforce civil rights and prevent discrimination. It is rooted in the enforcement clause of the Fourteenth Amendment, which grants Congress the power to enforce the amendment's provisions. However, concerns may arise regarding potential infringements on academic freedom, which could implicate First Amendment rights if the penalties are applied in a way that stifles free speech or expression.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).