TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV\/Florida Capital Bureau) – DEI programs around Florida may soon be erased.<\/p>\n
On Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a bill into law that will prohibit local governments from funding any local initiatives that relate to diversity, equity and inclusion.<\/p>\n
He said the intent is to prevent discriminatory practice in local policy.<\/p>\n
However, Florida Democrats said during the session that the language of the law is vague and could end up eliminating cultural programs such as LGBTQ+ parades.<\/p>\n
More Florida politics:<\/p>\n
Senator Clay Yarborough, the bill sponsor, affirmed the governor\u2019s concern and added that these programs are fiscally irresponsible. <\/p>\n
\u201cDEI is undermining merit – based decisions, it\u2019s pitting groups against each other, and it provides a lucrative opportunity for those pushing the narrative while growing the financial burden on taxpayers,\u201d Yarbough said.<\/p>\n
Rep. Ashley Gantt said during the regular session that this law will not allow local governments to respond in time. <\/p>\n
\u201cWhile we do have 10 to 12 carve-outs, that doesn\u2019t mean that local governments will still have the ability to understand and interrupt the law,\u201d she added.<\/p>\n
The punishment for violating any part of the law may be removal from office.<\/p>\n
This bill will take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. <\/p>\n
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