WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the 2022- 2023 term, the Supreme Court issued rulings on free speech, the environment, student loans, redistricting and more.
One of the most closely watched cases was about President Biden’s student loan relief plan. The president campaigned on forgiving at least ten to 20 thousand dollars worth in federal student loans, but the Court ruled the Department of Education lacked the authority under the HEROES Act to rewrite the statute to the extent of canceling 430 billion of student loan principle. The ruling is seen as a huge loss for the administration.
“I think the Court misinterpreted the constitution,” Biden said following the ruling.
Also about higher education, the Court said universities using affirmative action in their admissions process was unconstitutional. While the Court’s more liberal justices dissented arguing it rolls back decades of precedent and momentous progress, the majority ruled that affirmative action violates the equal protection clause of the 14th amendment.
The Court also released a decision on a closely watched redistricting case that would’ve shaped the way federal elections are held. Justices ruled that state courts can curtail the actions of their legislatures when it comes to federal redistricting and elections.
Another significant ruling, the Court upheld a 1978 law that gives preference to Native American families in the adoption process for Native American children. Native American people and tribes said the ruling was a huge win to keep kids close to their tribes and tribal identity.
Just before the Court took their summer break, the Court agreed to weigh whether people accused of domestic violence have a right to own firearms. This case is expected to test the scope of recently expanded gun rights.
