IBM pays $17M fine to end DOJ suit over DEI programs

IBM entered into a $17 million settlement agreement on Friday with the U.S. DOJ over allegations that it engaged in “illegal DEI practices” by taking into account “race, color, national origin, or sex” in its hiring and promotions. The DOJ also alleged that IBM used funds from its government contract for DEI programs and then sought reimbursement. IBM denied any wrongdoing, and the settlement is not an admission of liability nor a concession that the DoJ’s claims were without merit. “IBM is pleased to have resolved this matter. Our workforce strategy is driven by a single principle: having the right people with the right skills that our clients depend on,” an IBM spokesperson told TechCrunch.