U.S. Education Department Repeals Disparate-Impact Rule, Opposed to Office Transfers

The U.S. Department of Education announced the repeal of its disparate‑impact regulations that had allowed federal investigations of school discipline practices based on statistical disparities among racial groups. Critics had argued the rules exceeded the authority of Title VI and contributed to disorderly classrooms.

At the same time, a coalition of 86 House Democrats urged the department to halt a proposal to move the Office for Civil Rights and the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services to the Justice and Health departments. Lawmakers contend the transfers exceed legal authority and could weaken federal protections for students with disabilities. The department’s press secretary, Savannah Newhouse, rejected the concerns, saying the changes will not diminish civil‑rights or special‑education services.