Kehoe issues executive order to axe DEI initiatives from Missouri agencies
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Republican Gov. Mike Kehoe signed an executive order on Tuesday that directs Missouri state agencies to eliminate initiatives implementing diversity, equity and inclusion.
A press release from the governor’s office claims that it does not apply to “to any requirements in federal or state statute that uphold the rights and freedoms of Missouri citizens,” and that discrimination laws will still be enforced.
Diversity practices – or DEI – have been a hot topic for Republican politicians in recent years, with President Donald Trump seeking to get rid of federal programs. Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey sued Starbucks over its diversity programs last week.
A bill will be introduced at Tuesday night’s Jefferson City Council meeting aiming to rid programs and policies for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.
The University of Missouri last year reorganized its diversity division following bills with similar topics getting filed in the Missouri Legislature.
“Missourians deserve a government that treats all individuals equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination based on immutable characteristics,” Kehoe said in Tuesday's release. “Our state agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making. This order reaffirms Missouri’s commitment to a constitutional, color-blind approach that serves all citizens fairly.”
