Bill > HB4040

This bill prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices in Texas school districts, defining such practices broadly as any policies or actions that consider race, sex, color, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation beyond what is legally required by antidiscrimination laws. The bill mandates that school districts promote a "colorblind meritocracy" and explicitly prohibits numerous activities, including using state or local funds for DEI departments or programs, contracting with vendors for DEI training, hosting events that favor one race over another, providing DEI-related professional development, creating race-based scholarships, and using restorative justice practices. School district board members and employees are forbidden from attending conferences promoting DEI practices, and the board cannot adopt policies supporting such practices. If a school district is found in violation, it may lose state funding and face administrative penalties up to $1,000,000, with the attorney general authorized to seek injunctive relief to ensure compliance. The bill also removes references to restorative justice and related practices from other sections of Texas education and occupations codes, with implementation set to begin in the 2025-2026 school year. The legislation aims to prevent what its proponents view as discriminatory practices in educational settings by strictly limiting race-conscious policies and programs.

Education

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB4040