The "Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity Act" aims to amend the South Carolina Code of Laws by prohibiting state offices, departments, and political subdivisions, including institutions of higher learning and school districts, from promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The bill outlines specific actions that are considered promoting DEI, such as influencing hiring practices based on race or gender, providing special benefits based on these characteristics, and conducting related training programs. It mandates that any office or department must adopt policies to discipline employees who violate these provisions and requires compliance reports to be submitted to the General Assembly.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that before any state agency can enter into contracts or distribute funds, the contractors or organizations must certify that they do not operate programs promoting DEI. It emphasizes the state's commitment to protecting civil rights and promoting individual initiative and hard work, while also allowing for exceptions related to veterans and lawful employment preferences. The Attorney General is tasked with enforcing the act and may take legal action against violators. The act is set to take effect upon the Governor's approval and will first apply to the fiscal year and school year 2025-2026.