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Senate Bill 17 Compliance

 

Guidance on Senate Bill 17

 

In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 17 (SB 17) into law, “Responsibility of Governing Boards Regarding Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives” which amends Texas Education Code 51.3525 effective January 1, 2024. Under this law, public institutions cannot engage in certain specified diversity, equity, and inclusion activities. The law prohibits diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) offices along with the programs, activities, and trainings traditionally conducted by those offices. It prohibits institutions from hiring and employment practices and treating individuals differently or providing special benefits based on protected characteristics.

In response, the University of Texas System developed policy and guidance to assist institutions in their compliance with Texas Education Code 51.3525. The UT System approved UTS 197 to require consistency among UT System Institutions in the compliance with Senate Bill 17.

Senate Bill 17 
Texas Education Code 51.3525
UTS 197- Compliance with State Law Regarding Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Institutions of Higher Education
UT System SB 17 Guidance