Utah's anti-DEI bill has been signed by Gov. Spencer Cox, making the ban against diversity programs official. Previously, the state's legislature approved the new policy.
This legislation aims to restrict Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in schools and government offices. Cox already said that he will likely approve this bill.
The Utah governor passed the bill just as he is headed into the final year of his term, showing how seriously he shifted to the right on DEI.
Gov. Cox Signs Utah's Anti-DEI Bill
According to The Fortune's latest report, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox signed the new bill against DEI programs in state governments and universities on Tuesday, Jan. 30.
The controversial legislation that he signed cleared the state House and Senate by wide, party-line majorities. Cox explained why he decided to approve this legislation despite it aiming to benefit diverse hires.
"We've been concerned about some DEI programs and policies, particularly with hiring practices, and this bill offers a balanced solution," said Spencer Cox.
Recently, he also said that the practice of schools and government offices to require employees to sign DEI statements is "awful, bordering on evil."
Now that the bill has been signed into law, this means that universities and government offices in Utah can no longer have programs that promote diversity.
Aside from this, the legislation also restricts employers from requiring new hires to submit statements of commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
"It ensures academic freedom on university campuses where all voices will be heard," explained the bill's sponsor, Republican Keith Grover, before the bill received a final vote of 23-6.
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Utah's Transgender Bathroom Ban Bill Also Signed
Aside from the anti-DEI bill, the transgender bathroom ban legislation was also signed by Spencer Cox, as reported by The Salt Lake Tribune.
This policy aims to restrict LGBTQ+ members from using bathrooms that are not for them biologically.
"We want public facilities that are safe and accommodating for everyone and this bill increases privacy protections for all," explained Utah's governor.
Officials said that the new law includes criminal charges for transgender individuals who will use locker rooms, showers, or dressing rooms that don't align with their assigned sex at birth.
