Judge rejects DOJ's bid to end bank's redlining settlement

A federal judge ruled that ESSA Bank must adhere to its fair lending obligations for an additional three years, rejecting the DOJ's attempt to end the redlining settlement prematurely. The judge emphasized that these obligations serve the public interest and are necessary until the full term of the consent order is complete. The ruling comes amid ongoing scrutiny of redlining practices and the DOJ's mixed record in regulatory legal battles. Fair housing organizations praised the decision, highlighting its importance in combating housing discrimination.