Civil Rights Restoration Act

The Civil Rights Restoration Act, passed in 1987, aimed to strengthen and clarify the enforcement of civil rights in the United States. It expanded the definition of "program or activity" covered by federal anti-discrimination laws, ensuring that any institution receiving federal funds must comply with civil rights protections. This meant that if any part of an organization discriminated based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, the entire organization could face penalties, including losing federal funding. The act sought to promote fairness and equality across educational, employment, and public service contexts.