This bill aims to revise human rights laws in Montana by prohibiting state and local government agencies from requiring or requesting diversity statements from individuals. It explicitly states that no preferential treatment or consideration can be granted based on the submission of such statements. However, an exception is made for situations where federal law mandates the acceptance of diversity statements, in which case agencies may only accept them to the extent required and limit their consideration to what is necessary for compliance.
Additionally, the bill provides definitions for key terms, including "diversity statement," which is described as any submission intended to promote differential treatment based on various personal characteristics such as race, ethnicity, or gender identity. The legislation clarifies that it does not restrict agencies from implementing policies necessary to comply with existing state or federal laws regarding discrimination and harassment. The provisions of this bill are intended to be codified as a new chapter in Title 49 of the Montana Code.