If enacted, this bill would significantly revise current statutes regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives within state and local government entities and educational institutions. It would prohibit the establishment or maintenance of DEI offices, the hiring of DEI personnel, mandatory participation in DEI training, and any preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, or ethnicity. Additionally, the bill would require disciplinary policies for employees or contractors who violate these prohibitions. The bill also introduces definitions for DEI and DEI offices, clarifying their scope and the activities that would be restricted. While it excludes academic course instruction, scholarly research, or student organizations, it specifies that certain activities, such as applying for grants or discussing historical discrimination, are not prohibited. Furthermore, it mandates compliance reports from community colleges and state universities to the Legislature and allows individuals to pursue legal action if they are compelled to participate in prohibited DEI training. Overall, the bill aims to restrict DEI initiatives while ensuring adherence to existing antidiscrimination laws.

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