The North Carolina House of Representatives approved a bill that would restrict diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in state and local government agencies. The legislation, House Bill 171, passed in a 68-45 vote, largely along party lines.
The bill, sponsored by House Majority Leader Brenden Jones, would prohibit government entities, including state agencies and schools, from using DEI considerations in hiring or providing benefits based on characteristics such as race, sex, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. It would also bar the use of state funds for DEI programs and prevent agencies from applying for federal grants that require adherence to DEI-related policies.
“This is about restoring focus on merit and qualifications,” Jones said during the floor debate. “We’ve seen government institutions move toward what I would call ‘agenda hiring.’” He added that the bill would not affect academic curricula or cultural observances such as Black History Month or Pride Month.
The version of the bill passed Wednesday is narrower than earlier drafts. A previous version would have extended restrictions to non-governmental entities and imposed criminal penalties. The current version applies only to government bodies and includes potential civil fines of up to $10,000 per violation.
Democratic lawmakers strongly opposed the measure, arguing it could undermine programs designed to support historically marginalized communities. House Democratic Leader Robert Reives defended the value of DEI efforts, saying, “There are many individuals who some may label as ‘DEI hires’ who are highly qualified. This legislation sends a harmful message.”
Rep. Amos Quick, a Democrat from Guilford County, also questioned the bill’s intent. “The first line of the bill says it’s eliminating diversity initiatives,” he said. “You can’t claim to value diversity while seeking to eliminate initiatives that promote it.”
Wednesday’s vote followed delays earlier this month, when Democratic legislators gathered in the House gallery in protest. House Speaker Destin Hall said the delays were due to a sponsor’s excused absence, not the protests.
Efforts to curtail DEI programs have become a priority for Republican lawmakers in North Carolina and across the country, with similar proposals introduced in multiple states. The North Carolina Senate has already passed two separate bills addressing DEI in K-12 schools and public universities.
However, even if HB 171 advances through the Senate, its fate remains uncertain. Governor Josh Stein, a Democrat, is expected to veto the measure. Republicans hold a veto-proof majority in the Senate but are one seat short of that threshold in the House, meaning at least one Democratic vote or an absence would be needed to override a veto.
