In 2024, a wave of legislative action has swept across six states, targeting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives within public colleges and universities. These states, including one with a Democratic governor, have implemented bans or limitations on DEI practices, sparking ongoing debate.

DEI has been a contentious topic in higher education for years, facing significant opposition, particularly from Republicans. Critics argue that DEI promotes a specific ideological agenda, straying from its intended purpose. Civil rights attorney Devon Westhill, for example, has characterized DEI as an "industry pushing a left-wing orthodoxy."

The six states taking action in 2024 are Alabama, Idaho, Iowa, Indiana, Kansas, and Utah. Each state has taken a slightly different approach, ranging from outright bans on DEI offices and programs to limitations on their use in hiring and admissions.

Utah's Republican Governor, Spencer Cox, signed legislation in January prohibiting discriminatory practices based on personal identity characteristics. The law also bans any policy, procedure, or training labeled "diversity, equity, and inclusion."

Alabama followed suit in March, with Governor Kay Ivey signing a bill banning certain DEI offices and the promotion of "divisive concepts." These concepts include assigning guilt based on identity and the idea that meritocracy is inherently racist or sexist. The law also mandates restroom usage based on biological sex.

Indiana adopted legislation in March to modify the duties of diversity committees and emphasize "intellectual diversity." Further legislation was introduced to prohibit DEI teachings related to race and sex in schools.

Kansas's Democratic Governor, Laura Kelly, allowed a bill prohibiting certain DEI-related actions in postsecondary institutions to become law without her signature. The law imposes a $10,000 fine for violations, despite Kelly expressing concerns and stating her belief that the targeted conduct doesn't occur in Kansas universities.

Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed a bill in May limiting DEI in schools, including prohibiting the promotion of contested opinions on topics like unconscious bias, microaggressions, and social justice. This followed the state's board of education's earlier move to scale back DEI practices.

Idaho's Board of Education recently passed a resolution banning DEI-dedicated central offices, policies, and initiatives. The resolution also prohibits requiring employees or students to declare gender identity or preferred pronouns.

These six states join others like Florida, Texas, and Tennessee, which have already banned or limited DEI in higher education. The trend suggests a growing national debate over the role and impact of DEI initiatives in educational settings.