Texas Education Code 51.3525: Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Senate Bill 17 (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) was signed into law by the Governor in June 2023. The law created a new section 51.3525 of the Texas Education Code and went into effect on January 1, 2024.  Under this law, public institutions of higher education cannot engage in certain specified diversity, equity, and inclusion activities as defined in the statute.

The University of Texas System implemented its policy, UT System Policy 197, to require consistency among UT System institutions in their compliance with Texas Education Code § 51.3525. This law and System policy prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion (“DEI”) offices, and the programs, activities, and trainings, among other things, traditionally conducted by those offices. It also prohibits institutions from implementing hiring and employment practices and treating individuals differently or providing special benefits based on protected characteristics.