The Republican-majority Arizona Senate passed a measurethat would bar state entities from using affirmative action in college admissions and matters of employment.
Democrats including Juan Mendez are opposed. He says anti-discrimination laws are already on the books, so banning federal techniques like affirmative action will only harm diversity.
"This effort to rile up voters will backfire and likely prohibit the state from receiving federal funding, federal grants and funding that are tied to incentivized diversity. This stunt will only result in less funding for our schools and universities."
The measure now goes to the Republican-majority House. If approved, it will be up to voters in the next statewide election.
