Overview

• The Kentucky Senate approved a bill to limit diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices at public universities, with a 26-7 vote favoring the legislation.
• The bill prohibits public universities from requiring individuals to endorse specific ideologies for admission, employment, or promotions, and bars preferential treatment based on political ideology.
• Opponents argue the bill could roll back progress in minority enrollments and stifle discussions on past discrimination, while supporters claim it protects diversity of thought and counters 'liberal ideologies.'
• The legislation allows the state attorney general to take legal action against universities that do not comply, and requires public disclosure of course materials.
• Across the country, GOP lawmakers have proposed similar bills in 20 states, while Democrats have filed bills in 11 states to require or promote DEI initiatives.