West Virginia Senate Passes Legislation to Eliminate DEI Programs and Restructure State Education Oversight
Charleston, WV – In a significant legislative move, the West Virginia Senate has passed two bills aimed at overhauling the state’s approach to education and diversity initiatives.
The first bill, Senate Bill 474, seeks to eliminate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs across state institutions. Introduced at the request of Governor Patrick Morrisey, the legislation prohibits state departments, primary and secondary schools, and higher education institutions from establishing or maintaining DEI offices, hiring or contracting employees to promote DEI, and requiring DEI training as a condition of employment. Additionally, the bill restricts the teaching of certain concepts related to race and gender, including the idea that one race or sex is inherently superior to another. It also protects employees from being compelled to use pronouns inconsistent with a student’s biological sex. (theintelligencer.net)
The second piece of legislation, Senate Bill 870, proposes a constitutional amendment granting the West Virginia Legislature final authority over all policies set by the West Virginia Board of Education. This amendment would allow lawmakers to amend or reject policies related to curriculum, teacher training, student discipline, and other educational matters. The Senate passed the proposal with a technical amendment, sending it back to the House of Delegates for concurrence. (wvpress.org)
These legislative actions reflect a broader national trend where Republican-led states are reevaluating DEI initiatives and seeking greater legislative oversight in education. Supporters argue that such measures promote equal treatment and prevent divisive ideologies in schools, while opponents express concerns about potential censorship and the suppression of important discussions on race and identity.
Both bills now await further action in the House of Delegates, where they will undergo additional review and potential amendments before proceeding to the governor’s desk for final approval.
West Virginia Senate Advances Education and DEI Overhaul Legislation:
- West Virginia governor axes DEI and enacts vaccine exemptions on first full day in office
- W.Va. Senate passes bill restricting race, identity teaching | AP News
- West Virginia Senate passes amended state school board policy takeover bill; proposal goes back to House, setting up final vote – West Virginia Press Association
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