- Attorney General Pam Bondi has ordered the dismissal of DEI lawsuits against police and fire agencies over alleged discriminatory hiring practices. The Department of Justice is required to stop lawsuits.
- Bondi’s review found only statistical disparities in outcomes, not intentional discrimination.
- Trump’s executive order eliminates DEI programs and policies in federal and private sector hiring.
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U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi has ordered the dismissal of diversity-related lawsuits filed against police and fire agencies nationwide. The move follows a directive from President Donald Trump to eliminate diversity, equity and inclusion policies within the government and private sector.
DOJ ends DEI lawsuits against police, fire departments
The Department of Justice issued a press release on Wednesday, Feb. 26. In the release, the department affirmed the decision to end litigation over claims of discriminatory hiring practices in emergency response agencies.
Regarding her move, Bondi said Americans deserve emergency service providers that are chosen on their skill.
“American communities deserve firefighters and police officers to be chosen for their skill and dedication to public safety – not to meet DEI quotas,” Bondi said.
Allegations of discriminatory hiring practices
The lawsuits targeted agencies using aptitude tests to screen candidates for positions as firefighters or police officers. These tests typically assess physical, written and functional skills needed for first responders.
During the Biden administration, officials claimed the screening process disadvantaged Black and female applicants. They argued the tests were discriminatory and violated federal law.
However, the Trump administration’s DOJ contested those claims. The department asserted there was no evidence of intentional discrimination.
North Carolina and Maryland settlements
The debate over screening practices resulted in a settlement in North Carolina. State police were required to modify their hiring exams for firefighter candidates.
Additionally, the administration investigated longstanding discrimination complaints against the Maryland State Police, particularly in promotions and disciplinary actions. This investigation ended in a nearly $3 million settlement to address the agency’s hiring practices.
Bondi’s review of discrimination
After taking office as attorney general, Bondi reviewed the previous administration’s claims. She concluded only statistical disparities were found, which led to different outcomes among candidates.
These disparities were primarily based on race, gender and socioeconomic status, which may have contributed to lower test scores among certain groups.
