Bill > HB171

This bill prohibits public higher education institutions in Texas from offering academic programs, majors, minors, or courses related to LGBTQ studies or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). The legislation defines biological sex strictly as male or female based on reproductive cell production at conception and requires all academic programs to comply with this binary view. The bill mandates annual compliance audits by the state auditor, with financial consequences for institutions found in violation - specifically, loss of state funding. If an employee is found to have violated these restrictions, they will face disciplinary actions ranging from unpaid leave to termination, and their name will be added to a coordinating board list that prevents their future hiring at other state institutions. Students who are required to participate in programs that violate these provisions may seek legal relief through injunctive or declaratory actions. The bill is set to take effect in the 2026-2027 academic year and requires a two-thirds legislative vote for immediate implementation. This legislation represents a significant restriction on academic freedom and curriculum design in Texas public higher education institutions, specifically targeting programs related to LGBTQ+ and diversity studies.

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=891&Bill=HB171