TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida lawmakers will send a controversial bill banning diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in local government to Gov. Ron DeSantis.
SB 1134 was approved by the House on Tuesday afternoon. A GOP supermajority carried it with a 77-37 vote.
The measure will prohibit cities and counties from funding or promoting DEI programs, eliminate DEI offices and staff, void existing policies tied to those efforts, and even allow residents to sue local governments that violate the ban.
Republican supporters say the legislation stops taxpayer dollars from funding what they view as ideological programs or preferential treatment based on race, gender or identity.
Democrats and other critics argue it’s a sweeping state overreach that strips local governments of control and could dismantle programs aimed at addressing discrimination or expanding opportunity.
They consider it a part of a broader push by DeSantis and GOP lawmakers to eliminate DEI initiatives across Florida institutions.
If DeSantis signs, the legislation takes effect Jan. 1, 2027.
MORE COVERAGE:
Education
Board bans use of state, federal dollars for DEI programs at state universities
Education
DeSantis signs bill defunding diversity, equity, inclusion programs in Florida
Education
