Missouri – Governor Mike Kehoe signed Executive Order 25-18, requiring the termination of all diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) projects across state agencies in a bold action that has sparked debates throughout Missouri. This sweeping directive seeks to match state activities with what the Governor characterizes as a “constitutional, color-blind approach” for governing.
Under the new order, state agencies are not allowed to use public money for DEI posts or activities or to include DEI factors into their employment policies. The Governor said that this change is meant to create an environment in which government agencies truly follow merit-based decisions while running under values of justice and equal opportunity.
Governor Kehoe underlined that the impetus behind this audacious legislative change is to guarantee that every Missourian receives equal treatment under the law, free from prejudice or preferential treatment depending on immutable characteristics.
“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,” Kehoe said in a statement.
The executive order also calls for an exhaustive review procedure. To ensure compliance with the new direction, all state agencies must conduct thorough audits of their current contracts, programs, and rules within 90 days. This evaluation will guarantee that recruiting procedures do not take DEI considerations into account and that no state money is allocated to DEI-related projects.
Opponents of the law argue that it may impede initiatives meant to solve structural problems and improve workplace diversity. Advocates, on the other hand, welcome the action as a step toward a more objective government that treats people based just on their credentials and ability rather than demographic criteria.
Although the directive calls for the elimination of DEI initiatives, the Governor’s office has made clear that it has no bearing on how current federal or state laws against discrimination and advancement of justice are enforced. Agencies are supposed to keep their dedication to these legal norms, therefore safeguarding the rights and liberties of every individual.
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This executive order represents a major change in Missouri’s attitude to diversity and inclusion within government operations, therefore establishing a precedent that might affect policies of other states going forward. Both supporters and opponents will closely watch how these developments affect state agency culture and effectiveness as Missouri starts down this new road.
To view Executive Order 25-18, please click here.
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