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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2026-06-24

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill prohibits North Carolina state agencies and local governments from spending money on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, policies, or staff positions. It defines DEI as initiatives that influence hiring or employment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, nationality, country of origin, or sexual orientation outside of merit-based processes, and establishes penalties for violations including fines up to $10,000 and potential removal from employment.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill ensures that government hiring and spending decisions are based solely on merit and qualifications rather than demographic characteristics, promoting equal treatment of all individuals.
• •They contend that DEI programs can be costly, duplicate existing civil rights protections already required by law, and may divert resources from core government services.
• •Proponents believe the bill prevents what they see as unfair preferential treatment based on identity.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents argue the bill may undermine efforts to address systemic inequities in government employment and contracting that persist despite existing civil rights laws.
• •They contend that DEI initiatives help identify and remove barriers that prevent qualified candidates from underrepresented groups from being hired and promoted, and that the broad definition of DEI could restrict legitimate diversity recruitment efforts.
• •Critics also raise concerns about the bill's enforcement mechanisms and potential legal challenges under federal law.