The American Bar Association (ABA) is considering potential revisions to Standard 206, the rule that manages diversity and inclusion practices within law schools. The decision has been made considering the recent judgement of the U.S. Supreme Court on affirmative action policies.
The revisions were proposed to the Section of Legal Education and Admissions to the Bar, an arm of the ABA, by the Standards Committee. In its council meeting, the decision was taken to deliberate on the proposed amendments to Standard 206.
Following the discussions on the adjustments to the norm, the focus of Standard 206 may see a shift. Previously, the emphasis was on the aspects of “diversity and inclusion”. However, the new proposal could change the focus towards enabling access for “all persons”. This proposal could also broaden the enumeration of “identity characteristics”, presently composed of race, gender, and ethnicity – to include up to 14 distinct traits.
For further information regarding this ongoing development, refer to the original report on this topic: ABA Weighing Diversity Standard Revisions in Light of SCOTUS Ruling.