Bills Targeting DEI Practices in State Agencies and Universities Gain Momentum

A wave of legislation aimed at curtailing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives is making its way through the Arizona Legislature. Republican lawmakers are aligning these measures with President Donald Trump’s executive order that sought to dismantle DEI programs across various institutions.

Proposed bills would prohibit DEI-related practices in the hiring and training of state employees. Furthermore, they seek to ban state community colleges and universities from incorporating these concepts into their curricula.

Senate President Warren Petersen, a Republican from Gilbert, has communicated with the state’s three public universities, urging compliance with Trump’s directive to avoid potential regulatory repercussions.

Supporters of the bills argue that they will reinstate merit-based hiring practices. They view current DEI initiatives as part of a progressive agenda that exacerbates societal divisions. However, Democrats and critics counter that these restrictions overlook historical discrimination issues and may limit free speech, potentially stifling efforts to enhance workplace and campus representation for marginalized groups.

Sen. David Farnsworth, representing Mesa, has introduced SB1694, a bill aimed at withholding state funding from any college or university that offers courses promoting DEI principles. This legislation specifically targets classes that suggest colorblind approaches perpetuate racial oppression, or propose that being biased is inherently linked to one’s race or sex.

The legislation would also scrutinize discussions surrounding critical theory, anti-racism, systemic bias, and microaggressions. The Senate Education Committee approved the bill along party lines with a 4-3 vote.

In a statement, Farnsworth emphasized unity over division, arguing that educational agendas should not categorize individuals by their identity attributes. His reflections stemmed from an experience in which he found material in a multicultural education class to be biased against certain demographic groups.

While expressing his concerns, Farnsworth acknowledged the value of understanding diversity, asserting that it is critical for recognizing different life experiences. He remains receptive to amendments that could enhance the bill’s focus on diversity.

Alberto Plantillas, the central regional director for the Arizona Students’ Association, spoke out against the bill during committee hearings. He warned that such measures risk infringing upon free speech on campuses and could adversely impact enrollment for marginalized groups, including veterans, disabled individuals, and LGBTQ students.

Research, Plantillas noted, indicates that dismantling DEI initiatives can lead to decreased productivity and morale, while creating a negative work environment. He emphasized that DEI programs are designed to support a wide array of marginalized communities.

In addition to SB1694, two other Senate bills targeting DEI efforts are advancing through the legislature. SB1584 aims to prevent the state from prioritizing DEI in hiring practices, allowing legal action against employers who use tax funds for DEI training or job postings. This bill has already passed the Senate Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency Committee.

Senate Majority Leader Janae Shamp, who sponsors SB1584, stated, “Merit-based hiring ensures that the most qualified individuals are selected for government positions, which ultimately benefits the people of Arizona.”

Similarly, Senator Jake Hoffman’s proposed legislation prohibits state agencies from applying DEI considerations in hiring or imposing DEI training on employees. This measure cleared the Senate on February 20.

During discussions, Hoffman remarked that his bill aligns with Trump’s order, focusing on individual skills and merit. He asserted the need to safeguard taxpayers against what he describes as radical progressive policies that detract from professional competence.

Conversely, Senator Lauren Kuby highlighted the intrinsic value of DEI programs, emphasizing their role in fostering diverse perspectives in the workplace. “Diversity, equity, inclusion programs embrace the best of us,” she stated, underscoring the importance of varied viewpoints.