Legislation aimed at banning diversity, equity, and inclusion policies and practices at the local level has passed the Arkansas House of Representatives and is now awaiting the governor’s signature. Senate Bill 520, sponsored by Rep. Alyssa Brown and Sen. Dan Sullivan, would prohibit DEI offices, officers, policies, and practices in local government.
The bill would prevent local governments from implementing hiring and employment policies that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as prohibiting officials from compelling others to adhere to certain beliefs. Private citizens would have the right to sue local governments for violations of the prohibition.
Sullivan, who also sponsored Act 116 of 2025, which repealed state affirmative action programs, stated that the state needed to align itself with the current presidential administration’s positions on DEI. The bill has faced criticism, with Rep. Jessie McGruder questioning why local governments were being targeted when state lawmakers usually emphasize the importance of local control.
In response, Brown stated that the bill was about ensuring consistency with what has been passed at the state level and preventing discrimination in local government policies. She emphasized that discrimination is illegal under federal and state civil rights law, but the bill aims to prevent discrimination while also respecting constitutional rights.
The passage of Senate Bill 520 is part of a series of bills targeting culture war issues during the 2025 legislative session in Arkansas. The bill now awaits the governor’s approval before becoming law.
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