Florida Joins Texas in Reducing ABA's Role in Law School Accreditation

On January 15, 2026, the Florida Supreme Court announced a significant change in its law school accreditation policy, becoming the second U.S. state, following Texas, to reduce its reliance on the American Bar Association (ABA) as the sole accrediting agency for law schools. The court's ruling allows graduates from law schools accredited by other federally recognized agencies to qualify for the state’s bar exam, a requirement for practicing law in Florida. The court emphasized that this decision aims to enhance access to high-quality, affordable legal education while promoting the free exchange of ideas and nondiscrimination principles.

ReutersInside Higher EdAbove the Law

This move is part of a broader trend among Republican-led states to challenge the ABA's influence, particularly regarding its diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis praised the court's decision, asserting that the ABA should not act as a gatekeeper for legal education. The Texas Supreme Court had made a similar ruling just days earlier, indicating a coordinated effort among these states to reshape legal education standards.

Inside Higher Ed

The decision has faced criticism, particularly from Justice Jorge Labarga, the lone dissenting voice in the Florida Supreme Court. He argued that the ABA has provided invaluable expertise in the accreditation process since 1992, ensuring consumer protections and institutional transparency. Critics contend that the shift away from ABA accreditation could undermine the quality of legal education and the preparedness of graduates to meet professional standards.

Inside Higher Ed

The implications of Florida's decision extend beyond its borders, as other states like Ohio and Tennessee are also reconsidering their ABA requirements. Legal experts caution that the emergence of alternative accrediting bodies may not match the ABA's established standards, potentially leading to a decline in the quality of legal education. The ABA has already begun restructuring its accreditation processes in response to these political pressures, aiming to maintain its relevance amid growing scrutiny.

Reuters

While the Florida Supreme Court's ruling opens the door for alternative accreditors, there is currently no established body ready to take on this role. Experts express skepticism about the feasibility of creating a new accrediting agency that could rival the ABA's long-standing authority and expertise.

Inside Higher Ed

• “The Court’s goal is to promote access to high-quality, affordable legal education in law schools that are committed to the free exchange of ideas and to the principle of nondiscrimination.” — Florida Supreme Court Opinion

Above the Law

• “The (highly partisan) ABA should not be a gatekeeper for legal education or the legal profession.” — Ron DeSantis, Governor of Florida

Inside Higher Ed

• “the ABA has developed incomparable expertise in the accreditation process,” — Jorge Labarga, Justice, Florida Supreme Court

Above the Law

As Florida and Texas move forward with these changes, the legal community will be closely monitoring the effects on law school accreditation and the broader implications for the legal profession.

Inside Higher Ed