Bill > HB638

This bill restricts state and local government agencies from requiring, requesting, or soliciting diversity statements, which are defined as submissions that promote differential treatment based on characteristics like race, color, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, or gender identity. The bill prohibits government agencies from granting preferential treatment to individuals who provide such statements, with a limited exception for complying with federal law. Specifically, if federal law mandates accepting a diversity statement, the agency may only do so to the extent absolutely required and must limit consideration of the statement's contents to the minimum necessary to satisfy federal requirements. The bill emphasizes that these restrictions do not prevent agencies from establishing policies necessary to comply with anti-discrimination and anti-harassment laws. The legislation would apply to all branches of state government, including universities, as well as local government entities like counties, cities, towns, and school districts. By introducing these provisions, the bill aims to prevent what its sponsors likely view as potential discriminatory practices in government hiring, admissions, or other decision-making processes.

Justice

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2380