Despite a court order temporarily requiring its continuation in at least one region of the nation, the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) is trying another avenue to close Equity Assistance Centers nationwide after the Trump administration’s previous failed attempts. According to a notice posted in the federal register on June 25, 2026, the USDE is considering transferring related services to the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ).
Equity Assistance Centers (EACs) were established under Title IV of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and were originally called Desegregation Assistance Centers. They provide technical assistance and training to schools, districts, and school boards to “address education issues occasioned by school desegregation,” such as harassment, bullying and prejudice, according to the (USDE) website.
The centers also help districts interpret data to identify disparities and to address those disparities through efforts like professional development for teachers. There are four centers nationwide. The administration’s undoing of civil rights infrastructure comes as a number of studies show segregation in U.S. schools is increasing.
The June proposal would eliminate the EAC program. The public comment period for the USDE’s proposed rule to shut down EACs closes July 27, 2026.
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