A new report from the American Principles Project (APP) shows that nearly 70% of the Biden administration’s Department of Education enforcement actions have targeted faith-based and career schools, which serve a fraction of the nation’s students. The findings have led to accusations of bias and ideological targeting.

APP Policy Director Jon Schweppe accused the administration of using federal agencies to attack its ideological opponents. “The Biden-Harris Department of Education has been punishing Christian colleges in ways that are egregious and need to stop immediately,” he said.

Grand Canyon University (GCU) and Liberty University, two of the nation’s most prominent Christian schools, have faced unprecedented penalties. GCU received a $37.7 million fine over allegations of misleading students about program costs. This figure exceeds the combined penalties for major scandals at Penn State and Michigan State, which involved widespread sexual abuse.

The APP report highlights stark disparities in enforcement. The average fine for Christian colleges under the Clery Act was $815,000, compared to $228,571 for other institutions. Additionally, at least 12 Christian schools have faced excessive penalties or been barred from federal student aid, while elite universities like those in the Ivy League have escaped such scrutiny.

A Department of Education spokesperson denied bias, stating that religious affiliation or nonprofit status “has absolutely no bearing” on enforcement decisions. However, critics point to cases like GCU’s nonprofit recognition denial as evidence of an unfair agenda. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals recently ruled against the department, finding its decision unlawful.

The report has intensified criticism of the administration’s approach to faith-based schools, with many calling for a halt to what they see as politically motivated enforcement.