The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), during the Trump administration, has initiated investigations into the implementation of diversity initiatives in hiring and promotion practices at significant U.S. corporations. This action is based on a new interpretation of the False Claims Act, a federal law typically used to combat fraudulent activities by government contractors, such as improper billing for services not rendered.

The investigations are aimed at determining whether companies are misusing diversity programs in ways that could be deemed deceptive to the government. Prominent corporations under scrutiny include Google and Verizon, indicating a broader examination of corporate adherence to federal standards concerning diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche has communicated the directive through a memo that outlines the scope of these investigations.