Law Ending Discrimination in Colleges and Universities Become Effective in New York

The first state law aimed at ending racial and religious discrimination by colleges and universities went into effect today in New York. The state Fair Educational Practices Act forbids discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed or national origin. Only non-sectarian schools are barred from refusing to accept a student on account of his religion.

The Law, which will regulate the practices of 97 non-sectarian and 29 sectarian institutions of higher learning, will be administered by Frederick W. Hoeing, former field investigator for the State Commission Against Discrimination in Employment. Hoeing will work under the direction of the State Education Commissioner.

Under the terms of the law complaints of discrimination must be filed with the Education Commissioner, after which the matter will be investigated by Hoeing, the will seek to gain admittance to a college or university for the complainant if the complaint is found to be justified. In the event that the school refuses to admit the student, Hoeing will file his report with the Board of Regents, state governing body for the colleges and universities. The Board of Regents may order a public hearing where witnesses and records may be subpoenaed. In the event of defiance by the school, the Board may obtain an enforcing order from the State Supreme Court under contempt proceedings.

Hoeing will present a set of proposed regulations, policies and procedures to the Board of Regents on Friday. The Board is expected to consult with schools and minority bodies before making a final decision on Hoeing’s proposals. Hoeing, meanwhile, has refused to comment on his proposals, but indicated that he will operate along the lines presently used by the employment commission.