Bill > HB2198

This bill, known as the "DEI Compliance Certification Act," mandates that state departments, agencies, and public higher education institutions must demonstrate their compliance with existing state laws and policies that prohibit Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. DEI is defined in the bill as policies or practices based on concepts such as racial or gender superiority, the United States being fundamentally racist or sexist, individuals being inherently racist or sexist due to their race or sex, or the promotion of division and resentment between groups. State entities must submit annual reports by January 31st detailing their efforts to remove DEI from the workplace and certify under oath that they are in compliance with these prohibitions. Failure to comply could result in termination, reorganization, loss of funding, or other penalties. The Attorney General and Reporter is authorized to investigate any allegations of DEI violations and must submit an annual report on these investigations by October 31st. The act also includes provisions for severability and specifies an effective date of July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/Default?BillNumber=HB2198&ga=114