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The Tennessee Conservative Staff –
Governor Bill Lee signed a new law last week that will dismantle Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) departments in all governmental and public institutions.
The legislation, sponsored by State Senator Jack Johnson (R-Franklin-District 27) and State Representative Aron Maberry (R-Clarksville-District 68), prohibits a department, agency, or other unit of state government or political subdivision of the state from maintaining or authorizing an office or department that promotes or requires discriminatory preferences to increase diversity, equity, or inclusion.
The bill drew criticism from Democrats in the General Assembly, with many arguing that removal of DEI departments would take away equal opportunities from individuals. Additionally, there was question as to whether the legislation would negatively impact services offered for individuals with disabilities.
However, the bill’s sponsors repeatedly reiterated that the goal of the legislation was to “mandate that hiring decisions be solely based on merit, focusing on qualifications, experience, and skills.” They also noted that individuals with disabilities were protected under federal laws, so there would be no negative impact for them.
With the governor’s signature, the bill will be assigned a Public Chapter Number and will go into effect immediately.
