Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3164

Filed

3/1/23

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the prohibition of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices and employees at public institutions of higher education.

Impact

The implications of HB 3164 are significant for public institutions of higher education. By preemptively banning DEI initiatives, the bill seeks to centralize educational governance over these areas under state law, limiting the autonomy of institutions to address diversity and inclusion concerns internally. Its enactment would affect academic curricula, faculty hiring processes, and student organization activities, potentially changing the cultural landscape within Texas educational institutions. This could lead to decreased support for initiatives aimed at fostering diverse learning environments.

Summary

House Bill 3164 aims to prohibit the establishment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and employees at public institutions of higher education in Texas. The bill defines DEI offices as units established to influence faculty and student composition using race, sex, color, or ethnicity considerations and promoting benefits based on these factors. If enacted, the law would prevent institutions from conducting training or implementing programs related to race, gender identity, or similar topics, though it allows for compliance with federal and state discrimination laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3164 exhibits a deep divide. Proponents argue that the bill is a necessary measure to ensure that educational institutions do not engage in practices deemed discriminatory or unjust based on race or gender, thereby fostering a merit-based system within higher education. However, critics contend that the legislation undermines efforts to create inclusive and supportive academic environments that recognize the value of diversity in education. The debate reflects broader societal concerns regarding equity, justice, and the role of institutions in promoting these ideals.

Contention

The main contention surrounding the bill is the underlying issue of whether promoting diversity through specific initiatives is a form of positive action or discrimination. Opponents fear that the absence of DEI offices may lead to a reduction in support for marginalized groups, while supporters argue that these initiatives promote segregation and unfair advantages. The bill is poised to catalyze discussions not only within legislative bodies but also among the public, educators, and communities invested in the future of educational policy in Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
- Section: New Section

Latest HB3164 Activity

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX SB17

Relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB0283

Study of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Higher Education

TX HSB218

A bill for an act prohibiting institutions of higher learning governed by the state board of regents from expending moneys to fund diversity, equity, and inclusion offices or to hire individuals to serve as diversity, equity, and inclusion officers, creating a private cause of action, and including effective date provisions.(See HF 616.)

TX HF616

TX S0368

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

TX H3927

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

TX HB2546

In miscellaneous provisions relating to institutions of higher education, providing for prohibitions regarding ideological oaths or statements, for prohibition on diversity, equity and inclusion offices and employees, for statements required to be included in mission statement, bylaws, faculty handbook and student handbook, for certain mandatory training prohibited, for revoking tenure diversity, equality and inclusion violations and for spending prohibited.

TX HB2311

Relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives at public institutions of higher education.

TX SB474

Ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs

TX HB987

In miscellaneous provisions relating to institutions of higher education, providing for prohibitions regarding ideological oaths or statements, for prohibition on diversity, equity and inclusion offices and employees, for statements required to be included in mission statement, bylaws, faculty handbook and student handbook, for certain mandatory training prohibited, for revoking tenure for diversity, equity and inclusion violations and for spending restricted; and imposing penalties.