Bill > HB1659

This bill aims to regulate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives in Mississippi's K-12 schools and public colleges and universities by bringing forward and amending existing sections of the Mississippi Code of 1972. The bill defines "diversity, equity and inclusion" broadly to include actions that favor individuals based on race, sex, color, or national origin in hiring, admissions, or promotions, as well as requiring trainings or activities that compel participants to change their beliefs on certain social issues. It also defines "divisive concepts" as beliefs that one race is superior, that individuals are inherently racist or sexist due to their race or sex, or that individuals bear responsibility for past actions of others based on their race or sex. The bill prohibits public educational institutions from establishing DEI offices, engaging in divisive concepts, hiring staff for DEI roles, requiring diversity statements from applicants, or giving preference based on race, sex, color, or national origin. It also prohibits requiring participation in DEI training as a condition of enrollment or employment, and prohibits penalizing individuals for refusing to support DEI concepts. The bill outlines procedures for reporting and investigating violations, including a 30-day period for institutions to correct any identified issues, and allows for judicial review and potential withholding of state funds for repeated violations. It also clarifies that the provisions do not apply to programs for veterans, students with disabilities, or certain other specific circumstances, and allows for data collection and reporting of demographic data.

Justice

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2026/pdf/history/HB/HB1659.xml