FAIR Act of 2025

This bill, called the FAIR Act of 2025, would ban the federal government and groups that get federal money from discriminating against, or giving special treatment to, anyone based on race, color, or national origin. This applies to hiring, government contracts, and other federal programs. It also says the government can’t ask contractors or grant recipients to use preferences. “Preference” is defined broadly to include things like quotas, set‑asides, or numerical goals. It does not change immigration or nationality laws. Agencies would have six months to review and update their policies to follow these rules. People can sue if their rights are violated and may recover back pay and lawyer fees. Ongoing court cases and existing contracts aren’t changed by this bill .

Key points

• Who is affected: federal agencies and employees; federal contractors and grant/aid recipients; states and private entities that receive federal funds; schools that receive federal funds (for admissions).
• What changes: no discrimination or special preferences based on race, color, or national origin in hiring, contracting, admissions, or other federal programs; “preference” includes quotas and similar numerical targets; private right to sue with possible back pay and attorney’s fees; immigration laws remain unchanged; current cases and contracts stay as they are .
• When: agencies must review and update policies within six months of the law taking effect.