Bill > SB474

This bill aims to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across West Virginia's executive branch, primary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions. The bill defines DEI broadly as any efforts to influence hiring, provide special benefits, or conduct training related to race, color, ethnicity, or national origin, with narrow exceptions for legal compliance. In primary and secondary education, schools are prohibited from teaching concepts that suggest any race or sex is superior, that individuals are inherently racist or oppressive, or that cause psychological distress based on race or sex. Higher education institutions are similarly restricted, being forbidden from maintaining DEI offices or officers, requiring DEI statements, or giving preferential treatment based on diversity considerations. The bill requires institutions to report on their compliance, with potential financial penalties for non-compliance, and mandates that any unexpended DEI-related funds be reallocated to merit scholarships or tuition reduction. Schools and universities must remain neutral on contested social justice concepts and cannot compel students or employees to affirm specific ideological positions about race, sex, or identity. The legislation includes complaint and appeals processes for students, parents, and employees who believe the law has been violated, and explicitly protects certain academic discussions and free speech rights.