20-02-2025
Missouri Republicans set to disrupt DEI practices within state government
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has officially joined GOP lawmakers in a quest to do away with diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that are in place at the state level.
In an executive order issued this week, Kehoe directed all state agencies in Missouri to eliminate DEI initiatives. He also asked agencies to make sure they were complying with 'equal protection under the law.'
'Our state agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making,' Kehoe said in a statement that accompanied the new directive. 'This order reaffirms Missouri's commitment to a constitutional, color-blind approach that serves all citizens fairly.'
In his 18th executive order since taking office last month, EO 25-18 includes several additional directives like the elimination of public funds for DEI as well as prohibiting agencies from considering DEI factors when hiring new employees.
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Kehoe's order coincides with a bill that is being considered for a third and final vote. House Bill 742 highlights several things included in Kehoe's order, like prohibiting state agencies from participating in DEI programs. It also includes language about DEI requirements when it comes to state contracts.
The measure, sponsored by State Rep. Ben Baker, R-Neosho, passed out of two committees and now awaits final approval from the House. The bill was perfected earlier this week with a vote of 100 in favor and 49 against.
A final vote on the bill could come as early as Thursday.
The moves by Kehoe and Republican legislators follow similar purges of programs at the federal level by President Donald Trump.
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