What term describes a policy that negatively impacts a protected class more than others?

The term that describes a policy that negatively impacts a protected class more than others is "disparate impact." This legal concept refers to situations where a seemingly neutral policy or practice disproportionately affects individuals based on their membership in a protected class, such as race, gender, religion, or disability. Disparate impact is significant because it highlights that discrimination can occur even when there is no intent to discriminate.

For example, if a housing policy sets criteria that appear fair on the surface but unintentionally excludes a particular ethnic group at a disproportionate rate, it could be considered to have a disparate impact. This concept is crucial in enforcing civil rights laws and ensuring that policies are evaluated not just for their intent but also for their actual effects on different groups.

The other terms, while related to discrimination, do not specifically encapsulate the concept of a policy adversely affecting a protected class more than others in the same nuanced way. "Adverse effect" is more general and does not necessarily indicate that it relates specifically to protected classes. "Unintentional bias" implies a lack of intent but is not as specific to policies impacting a protected class. "Systemic discrimination" refers to broader patterns of discrimination across systems and institutions rather than focusing on the impact of specific policies.