The proposed bill, known as the Equal Treatment in Higher Education Act of 2025, seeks to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, trainings, and offices across the executive branch, primary and secondary schools, and institutions of higher education in West Virginia. It establishes a framework that defines DEI, outlines legislative findings, and sets up a complaint and appeals process for parents and guardians of students who feel aggrieved by violations of the bill. The legislation mandates that school principals and superintendents report on their efforts to eliminate DEI initiatives and provides immunity from civil liability for employees of county boards and public charter schools.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits state departments and educational institutions from establishing DEI offices or requiring participation in DEI trainings, and it ensures that employees cannot be compelled to use preferred pronouns inconsistent with a student's sex. It emphasizes free speech and expression, stating that institutions must not suppress debate based on perceived offensiveness. The bill also redirects unexpended funds from DEI offices to merit scholarships or to reduce tuition for resident students, prohibits diversity statements in admissions or hiring, and ensures no preferential treatment based on race or ethnicity. The legislation will take effect 90 days after passage and requires annual compliance reporting.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 5-33-1, 5-33-2, 5-33-3, 18B-1G-1, 18B-1G-2, 18B-1G-3, 18B-1G-4, 18B-1G-5, 18-2-9b, 18-5-29, 18B-14-5, 18B-14-6
Committee Substitute: 5-33-1, 5-33-2, 5-33-3, 18B-1G-1, 18B-1G-2, 18B-1G-3, 18B-1G-4, 18B-1G-5, 18-2-9b, 18-5-29, 18B-14-5, 18B-14-6
Committee Substitute for the Committee Substitute: 5-33-1, 5-33-2, 5-33-3, 18B-1G-1, 18B-1G-2, 18B-1G-3, 18B-1G-4, 18B-1G-5, 18-2-9b, 18-5-29, 18-5-50, 18B-14-5, 18B-14-6
Enrolled Version: 5-33-1, 5-33-2, 5-33-3, 18B-1G-1, 18B-1G-2, 18B-1G-3, 18B-1G-4, 18B-1G-5, 18-2-9b, 18-5-29, 18-5-50, 18B-14-5, 18B-14-6