Virginia Lawmakers Demand Audit of UVA’s Justice Department Agreement
Virginia lawmakers are raising concerns about the legality of the University of Virginia’s (UVA) recent agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). Two Democratic legislators, Senators Scott Surovell and L. Louise Lucas, are calling for an independent audit of the agreement’s constitutionality.
Key Details of the UVA-DOJ Agreement
On October 22, 2023, UVA’s Interim President Paul Mahoney signed a four-page agreement with the DOJ. This deal aims to resolve five ongoing investigations against the university. As part of the agreement, UVA commits to following the DOJ’s extensive guidance issued in July regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and must provide quarterly compliance reports.
Concerns from Legislators
Surovell and Lucas have expressed that the agreement conflicts with Virginia state law. They argue it eliminates legislatively mandated programs and could compromise UVA’s statutory obligations. In their letter, they demanded responses from Mahoney and Rachel Sheridan, the head of UVA’s board, by November 7, 2023.
- Date of Agreement: October 22, 2023
- Deadline for Responses: November 7, 2023
Legislative Reactions
The two lawmakers criticized the lack of consultation with the Virginia General Assembly prior to the agreement’s execution. They described this oversight as a serious breach of governance. Mahoney and the university maintain that the deal was reached with guidance from internal leadership as well as legal counsel.
Furthermore, Surovell and Lucas questioned whether Virginia’s Attorney General, Jason Miyares, provided unbiased legal advice given his ties to the previous administration. They expressed doubts about his capability to represent the interests of Virginia’s public universities adequately.
Opposition from Other Legislators
Other Virginia Democrats have also condemned the agreement. Delegates Katrina Callsen and R. Creigh Deeds argued that it allows for excessive federal control over university operations. They warned that this could hinder UVA’s ability to uphold principles such as academic freedom and ideological diversity.
In an earlier letter, Callsen and Deeds urged the university leadership to reconsider the agreement and reject further federal encroachments.
University’s Defense
In response to the criticism, Mahoney and Sheridan stated that they “respectfully disagree” with the views of Callsen and Deeds. They asserted that the agreement reflects extensive engagement with the DOJ and is distinct from obligations faced by other universities, like Columbia and Brown.
As the situation develops, Virginia lawmakers continue to demand transparency and accountability regarding the university’s commitments to federal authorities.
