California has become the fifth state in the United States to outlaw the practice of universities giving preferential treatment to applicants based on family donations or connections. Governor Gavin Newsom recently signed AB 1780 into law, which will take effect on September 1, 2025. The bill, introduced by Democratic state assemblyman Phil Ting, aims to eliminate legacy and donor admissions at private, nonprofit universities in the state.
This legislative move follows the 2022 Supreme Court decision in Students for Fair Admissions, Inc. v. President and Fellows of Harvard College, which struck down affirmative action in college admissions. Critics of legacy and donor admissions have long argued that these practices serve as a form of ‘affirmative action for the rich,’ sidelining deserving candidates based solely on wealth and connections. Rights groups, such as the African Community Economic Development of New England and the Greater Boston Latino Network, have levied charges against institutions like Harvard University for engaging in unfair admission practices that violate Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (full complaint).
Assemblyman Phil Ting emphasized the importance of fairness in the admissions process, stating, “If we value diversity in higher education, we must level the playing field. That means making the college application process more fair and equitable. Hard work, good grades, and a well-rounded background should earn you a spot in the incoming class – not the size of the check your family can write or who you’re related to.” Under the new law, universities in California must submit an annual compliance report to the state Legislature and Department of Justice by June 30, 2026. While the act does not prescribe specific punishments for violations, it mandates the publication of institutions found to be in breach.
Data from self-reported information by universities sheds light on the extent of legacy and donor admissions in some Californian schools. The University of Southern California (USC) admitted 14.4% of its students based on family connections or donations, followed by Stanford University at 13.8% and Santa Clara University at 13.1%. The Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities, which counts USC, Stanford, and Santa Clara among its members, has stressed the importance of ensuring that the reporting requirements are both “achievable and relevant” (link).
This legislation marks a significant shift in how Californian higher education institutions handle their admissions process, aligning with broader national conversations about fairness and equity in access to education.