Bill > SB1084

This bill, known as the "Dismantling DEI Departments Act," aims to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts across various levels of Tennessee government, including state agencies, county and municipal governments, and public higher education institutions. The bill prohibits these entities from using what it defines as "discriminatory preferences" - policies that grant or withhold benefits based on demographic characteristics like race, ethnicity, sex, or age, rather than individual merit or qualifications. Notably, the legislation allows for exemptions if complying would result in a loss of federal funding, with institutions required to submit a written notice to the comptroller and renew their exemption annually. The bill also modifies numerous sections of Tennessee's legal code to remove references to diversity, inclusion, and demographic representation in government appointments and board compositions, effectively requiring that appointments be made solely on the basis of individual merit and professional qualifications. Agencies and institutions would be required to void any existing mandates, policies, or programs that conflict with these new restrictions, fundamentally changing how Tennessee's government approaches workforce and leadership diversity.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1084&ga=114