Was this where the UC’s were going to use it like other college that are ‘test optional’ do - meaning if you submit them, they will look at them (helps) but if you don’t submit it supposedly won’t hurt you? If that’s the case, then I have to agree with the decision. I think even for other colleges with the policy, its hard not to think that not submitting a test score doesn’t hurt you. It certainly doesn’t help, and if other submit, then effectively its hurting.
I’m not a fan of test optional and I think UCs are making a mistake by removing testing (long term) for all applicants. I understand the short term Covid testing issues, but long term, its a mistake. Grades are so variable as to be almost meaningless.