Gov. Stein Vetoes Trio of Anti-DEI Bills
Today, Governor Josh Stein vetoed a trio of anti-DEI bills that would eliminate divisive practices in K-12 Education, University of North Carolina System, and North Carolina State Government. Stein said the legislation was passed by the legislature “to distract us by stoking culture wars.” The Republican-controlled General Assembly plans to attempt to override these vetoes.
About the legislation that Gov. Stein vetoed:
Senate Bill 558: Eliminating “DEI” in Public Higher Ed: This legislation would prohibit public institutions of higher education, including the University of North Carolina and community colleges, from promoting and implementing divisive concepts, particularly those associated with DEI programs. The legislation does allow freedom to discuss ideas in an academic setting, but stops the institutions from promoting these ideologies.
Senate Bill 227 Eliminating “DEI” in Public Education: Like the higher education bill, this legislation prohibits divisive concepts from being promoted in public K-12 schools.
House Bill 170 Equality in State Agencies/Prohibition on DEI: This legislation eliminates DEI programs throughout North Carolina state government and prevents discriminatory hiring and administrative practices.
What They Are Saying:
Senate Leader Phil Berger said, “Gov. Stein also had the chance to rid our public schools, colleges and universities, and state agencies of divisive ‘DEI’ programs but refused to do so. He’s choosing to ignore the clear will of the people who are tired of politically correct nonsense.
NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons said, “Gov. Stein’s true ideology revealed itself when he vetoes bills to end unfair DEI practices in state government and can’t acknowledge there are two genders.”
NC House Majority Leader Brenden Jones said, “Disappointed to learn that Governor Stein vetoed HB171 (ending DEI in state agencies). I find it odd that Governor Stein is against merit based hiring in state government. I look forward to overriding his veto.”
