H.R. 5474: No Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the District of Columbia Act

This bill, known as the "No Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the District of Columbia Act," aims to prohibit certain practices related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the government of the District of Columbia. Key provisions of the bill include:

1. Prohibition of DEI Practices

• The District Government is not allowed to engage in any activities considered as prohibited DEI practices.
• Funding for any DEI activities is strictly banned, meaning public funds cannot be used to support these practices or organizations that promote them.

2. Definition of Prohibited Practices

The bill defines "prohibited diversity, equity, or inclusion practices" as:

• Discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, biological sex, or national origin.
• Conditions of employment or advancement that require training or programs asserting the superiority or inferiority of any group based on the above categories.
• Requiring employees to sign statements affirming any racial or ethnic group's superiority or inferiority.
• Taking personnel actions against individuals for failing to complete DEI training or similar programs.
• Creating organizations or employing individuals specifically to promote DEI initiatives.

3. Prohibition on DEI Training Programs

• The District Government cannot develop or implement any DEI training programs that reflect the prohibited practices outlined in the bill.
• No employee can be mandated to undergo DEI training related to the defined categories.
• Public funds cannot be allocated for DEI training or associated curricula.

4. Repeal of Current Laws

The bill seeks to repeal various existing laws and provisions within the District's legal framework that pertain to diversity, equity, and inclusion, specifically affecting:

• Pension management for diverse fund managers.
• Local government support for disadvantaged business enterprises.
• Various commissions and offices focused on racial equity, diversity, and community affairs.
• Support programs for LGBTQ communities and other specific demographic groups.

5. Elimination of Specific Offices and Commissions

The following offices and commissions would be abolished under this act:

• Mayor’s Office of Racial Equity
• Commission on Reparations
• Various offices focused on LGBTQ and minority affairs.

6. Enforcement Mechanisms

• The bill allows individuals to bring civil actions in court if they believe their rights under this act have been violated.
• If successful, plaintiffs may receive compensation and legal fees, as well as other forms of relief.

7. Exceptions

While the bill prohibits DEI practices, it does not affect the operations of offices dedicated to Equal Employment Opportunity or those enforcing the Americans with Disabilities Act.

8. Effective Date

The act would take effect 90 days after it is enacted.

Relevant Companies

None found