SC House passes second reading of DEI bill that aims to align with Trump order
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) – Republicans proposed an amendment to the state's diversity equity and inclusion bill that essentially strips the bill and copies President Trump's executive order.
'It's too easy to blame Trump for this. It's too easy to blame Elon Musk for this,' said Representative Chris Hart (D – Richland).
The amendment states, 'following the leadership of the president in prioritizing merit-based policies, will strengthen government institutions and reinforce South Carolina's commitment to fairness, equity, and the rule of law.'
'President Trump did this executive order, I think two months ago, and everything's moving along great as it relates to that, and we're not going to have any kind of sky is falling. We're just making sure that we're being judicious with taxpayer dollars, that we're not funding ridiculous programs,' said Representative Steven Long (R – Spartanburg).
He added, 'It's all about people's merit. That's what this bill is about. It's about protecting the taxpayers. It's about protecting students. The people who might be applying for work. '
But Democrats proposed several amendments of their own. One amendment said no public institutions or state agency should be restricted from discussing, researching or promoting D.E.I.
'It's ok to talk about race. There is nothing wrong with diversity and there is nothing wrong with this state acknowledging the fact that we should be able to have these discussions,' said Representative Justin Bamberg (D – Bamberg).
Hart said, 'Sad day in South Carolina that, in 2025, we're here to address issues that are not new to South Carolina.'
There were over 20 amendments on the speaker's desk before the debate started Wednesday morning.
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