H.B. No. 120 is a bill that seeks to prohibit public institutions of higher education in Texas from offering programs or courses related to LGBTQ studies and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). The bill introduces a new section, 51.988, to the Education Code, which defines key terms such as "institution of higher education," "coordinating board," "male," and "female." It explicitly states that institutions cannot offer any certificate or degree programs, including majors or minors, in LGBTQ studies or DEI, and mandates that all programs must adhere to the biological classification of only two sexes, male and female.

Additionally, the bill outlines compliance measures, including annual audits by the state auditor to ensure institutions are not using state funds in violation of this prohibition. If violations are found, institutions would lose state funding until compliance is achieved. The bill also allows students to take legal action against institutions that require participation in prohibited programs and establishes penalties for employees who violate the provisions, including unpaid leave or discharge. The act is set to take effect for the 2026-2027 academic year, pending legislative approval for immediate effect.

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