Alabama 2022 Regular Session

Alabama Senate Bill SB7

Introduced
1/11/22  

Caption

Labor, prohibits state and political subdivisions from teaching divisive concepts relating to race or sex in training, prohibits same for state contractors, Dept. of Labor to review state agency training programs

Impact

If enacted, SB7 would have a considerable impact on how state agencies and contractors approach employee training related to diversity and inclusion. The bill mandates that all training programs undergo scrutiny by the Department of Labor to ensure that they do not promote divisive concepts. Consequently, this could lead to a reduction in training options available for state employees aimed at fostering an inclusive work environment, as many established diversity programs might conflict with the requirements of the bill.

Summary

Senate Bill 7 (SB7) seeks to prohibit the teaching of certain divisive concepts related to race and sex within training programs provided by state agencies and contractors in Alabama. This legislation aims to prevent the adoption or belief in ideas that could suggest one race or sex is superior to another, or that certain historical or social dynamics inherently embed racism and sexism in individuals based on their race or sex. The bill also calls for the Department of Labor to review training programs to ensure compliance with its provisions, thereby requiring a significant overhaul of state training methodologies, particularly those focusing on diversity and inclusion initiatives.

Contention

The legislation has sparked debates surrounding its implications for promoting inclusivity and handling discussions about race and sex in state-sponsored training. Supporters argue that the bill is necessary to prevent divisive teachings that could foster division among employees. Conversely, critics contend that the bill limits constructive discussions about racial and gender equity, potentially stifling important dialogues that could lead to better workplace environments. The contention primarily lies in the interpretation of what constitutes 'divisive concepts' and the implications for freedom of expression and educational integrity in state-funded programs.

Companion Bills

AL HB9

Same As Labor, prohibits state and political subdivisions from teaching divisive concepts relating to race or sex in training, prohibits same for state contractors, Dept. of Labor to review state agency training programs

Previously Filed As

AL SB129

Diversity, equity, and inclusion; certain public entities prohibited from maintaining office that promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion programs; certain programs related to divisive concepts or diversity, equity, and inclusion, prohibited; promotion and endorsement of certain divisive concepts in certain public settings prohibited; exceptions provided; public institution of higher education, required to designate multioccupancy restrooms based on biological sex

AL HB244

State government, prohibits a state agency or other political subdivision of the state from taking certain actions in response to treaties

AL HB11

State agencies and occupational licensing boards, prohibited from preventing disclosure of misfeasance or malfeasance of employees and contractors

AL HB282

Government administration, state and local agencies prohibited from contracting with media monitoring organizations and certain contractors and companies

AL SB180

Government administration, state and local agencies prohibited from contracting with media monitoring organizations and certain contractors and companies

AL HB582

Public K-12 education; use and teaching of social-emotional learning concepts prohibited, parental consent required for certain surveys, violations constitute neglect of duty

AL HB3

Real estate commission; real estate brokers, companies, salespersons; training, qualifications licensure; penalties for certain licensee conduct; required disclosures, prohibited conduct

AL HB509

Game breeder license; possessory interest in deer established; killing, testing, prohibition of transfer of deer by state agencies for disease prohibited, subject to exceptions

AL SB323

Game breeder license; possessory interest in deer established; killing, testing, prohibition of transfer of deer by state agencies for disease prohibited, subject to exceptions

AL SB172

Prohibiting discrimination in employment and receipt of federal or state financial assistance based on an individual's hair texture or hairstyle

Similar Bills

CA AB1204

Contractors: contracts: restrictions.

NJ S1923

Concerns payment of independent contractors.

CA SB1423

Worker classification.

OR SB518

Relating to requirements for employing workers under qualified contracts with educational institutions; prescribing an effective date.

CT SB01127

An Act Concerning Contributions By State Contractors To Town Committees.

CA AB2557

Local agencies: contracts for special services and temporary help: performance reports.

CA AB3087

Contractors’ State License Law.

CA AB2361

University of California: outsource contracts.