Bill > SB326

This bill prohibits public higher education institutions and proprietary schools in Missouri from requiring diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statements from applicants, employees, students, or contractors. The legislation defines DEI statements broadly, covering communications about race, ethnicity, gender, views on social justice, marginalized groups, and related concepts. Institutions are forbidden from compelling individuals to endorse what the bill terms "discriminatory ideologies" or provide DEI statements, and they cannot give preferential treatment to those who voluntarily submit such statements. The bill allows individuals who believe they've been adversely affected to pursue legal action, with potential remedies including admission, hiring, reinstatement, promotion, or tenure. Employees found violating these provisions face escalating disciplinary actions: a first violation results in a year of unpaid leave and ineligibility for employment at state institutions, while subsequent violations can lead to termination and a five-year employment ban. Institutions must also annually report their compliance to state legislative leadership. The law includes exceptions for academic research, certain required disclosures, and voluntary statement submissions, and aims to prevent what its sponsors perceive as ideological discrimination in higher education settings.

Education

https://www.senate.mo.gov/25info/BTS_Web/Bill.aspx?SessionType=R&BillID=339