The proposed bill would significantly amend current statutes by prohibiting state agencies, cities, towns, counties, community college districts, and state universities from establishing DEI offices, hiring DEI personnel, requiring DEI training, or providing preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, or ethnicity. It mandates these entities to adopt disciplinary policies for employees or contractors who violate these prohibitions, including potential termination. Additionally, the bill removes existing language that permits DEI-related training and initiatives, thereby reshaping the approach to DEI within public institutions in Arizona.

Moreover, the bill introduces definitions for "diversity, equity, and inclusion" and "diversity, equity, and inclusion office," clarifying that related activities must comply with state and federal antidiscrimination laws. It requires compliance reports to be submitted to the Legislature before funding is allocated to community colleges and state universities, and allows individuals to pursue legal action against institutions that breach these new regulations. Overall, the bill aims to restrict DEI initiatives while ensuring that any actions taken by DEI offices are legally compliant and approved by the agency's general counsel.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 41-1494.01
House Engrossed Version: 41-1494.01
Senate Engrossed Version: 9-500.52, 11-269.30, 15-1454, 15-1607, 41-710.03