H.B. No. 1521 introduces a new chapter to the Texas Government Code, specifically Chapter 621, which establishes a prohibition on certain diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives by governmental entities. The bill defines a "diversity, equity, and inclusion office" and outlines specific activities that such offices are prohibited from engaging in, including influencing hiring practices based on race, sex, or ethnicity, promoting differential treatment based on these characteristics, and conducting trainings related to these topics unless they comply with strict legal guidelines. The bill mandates that governmental entities must not establish or maintain DEI offices or hire employees for these roles unless required by federal law.

Additionally, the bill provides a mechanism for enforcement, allowing individuals who believe a governmental entity is violating the provisions to file a complaint with the attorney general. If a violation is confirmed, the attorney general can seek a writ of mandamus to compel compliance. The bill specifies the jurisdiction for such actions based on the type of governmental entity involved. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses of the legislature or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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