DeSantis Signs Bills Limiting Local DEI and Net-Zero Policies

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed two bills on Wednesday in Jacksonville that prohibit cities and counties from funding or promoting diversity, equity and inclusion programs or adopting net-zero greenhouse gas emission policies. The measures, effective at different dates next year, aim to limit local government actions on these issues and include enforcement mechanisms such as potential removal of officials who violate them.

Senate Bill 1134 targets diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives by barring municipalities and counties from allocating funds or passing resolutions in support of such programs. It also prevents the establishment of DEI offices or the appointment of inclusion officers. The legislation defines DEI efforts as any attempt to influence employee composition based on factors including race, color, sex, ethnicity, gender identity or sexual orientation, except where required by state and federal anti-discrimination laws. Violations could lead to lawsuits from residents and the removal of local officials by the governor. The bill takes effect on January 1, 2027.

DeSantis, speaking at the signing event, emphasized accountability in enforcement. "What I've found...