Senate adopts law restricting diversity, equity and inclusion offices and programs in Mississippi public schools and colleges

The Mississippi Senate adopted a strike‑all amendment and passed House Bill 11‑93 on final passage, a measure that defines “diversity, equity and inclusion” activities and limits public‑school, community college and higher‑education spending, offices and practices tied to those activities.

The bill’s sponsor told the Senate the act is meant to bar institutions from establishing DEI offices, hiring staff to perform DEI duties using state funds, requiring DEI statements, or awarding preferences in employment or admissions “based upon race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation,” except where federal or state law requires otherwise.

Supporters argued the language provides statewide clarity and directs local governing boards to adopt complaint and investigatory procedures. Under the bill the board of trustees for state institutions of higher learning, the Mississippi Community College Board, the Mississippi Board of Education and the Mississippi Charter School Board must adopt complaint processes and investigative procedures within 120 days. If a complainant is dissatisfied with a board’s investigation, the…