Attorney Todd Rokita and Governor Mike Braun Clarify State Contractor Standards to Ban Discriminatory DEI Practices

Attorney General Todd Rokita is tasked with the review and approval of all state contracts, including enforcement of the False Claims Act. Affirming his dedication to eliminate discriminatory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practices, Rokita has mandated that all state contractors, for agreements signed on or after July 1, must confirm they do not engage in discriminatory DEI initiatives based on race or sex in recruitment, hiring, or other employment activities. Despite its intentions, DEI often masks policies that contravene state and federal civil rights laws. Rokita clarified, “No one is exempt from consequences for unlawful discrimination under the guise of good intentions.” Alongside Governor Mike Braun, whose executive order prohibits the use of state resources for DEI programs providing preferential treatment by race, they aim to ensure equal opportunities. Recent revisions to state contracts emphasize that any contractor violating these guidelines risks enforcement action under the False Claims Act. For further details, the updated nondiscrimination provision can be accessed.

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