California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill that would have allowed universities to give descendants of slaves special consideration in admissions, saying it was unnecessary because colleges already have that authority.

The veto is viewed as a setback for reparations efforts.

The bill, proposed by Democratic Assemblymember Isaac Bryan, would have permitted but not required institutions to provide such preferences.

Newsom also vetoed other reparations-related bills on housing, property restitution, and business licenses, citing legal, practical, and financial concerns, Newsweek has reported.

His decision comes amid broader national debates over diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, including actions by the Trump administration targeting universities.