Summary

Summary of Executive Order on Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity

Purpose

• The order aims to enforce existing federal civil rights laws that protect individuals from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• It addresses concerns over alleged discriminatory practices under "diversity, equity, and inclusion" (DEI) policies that some believe violate these civil-rights protections.

Actions Taken

1. Revocation of Previous Executives Orders:

• Cancels several previous executive orders promoting DEI initiatives within federal agencies.

2. Policy Directive:

• All federal agencies are instructed to eliminate any discriminatory policies, programs, or practices that prioritize factors like race or sex over individual merit.
• Agencies are mandated to ensure compliance with civil rights laws in their contracting processes.

3. Revisions in Federal Contracting:

• The contracting process will emphasize civil rights compliance and remove requirements related to DEI.

4. Encouraging Private Sector Compliance:

• Agencies are directed to promote merit-based principles in the private sector.
• The Attorney General must report on enforcement strategies against illegal DEI practices in the private sector within 120 days.

5. Guidance for Educational Institutions:

• A directive to provide institutions receiving federal funding with guidance on compliance concerning recent court rulings on admissions practices.

6. General Provisions:

• Certain aspects of the order acknowledge exempt preferences for veterans and protections under specific laws.

Expected Impact

• The order aims to consolidate merit-based evaluation practices across federal agencies and encourage similar compliance in the private sector, with the intent of fostering a uniform approach to civil rights while reducing perceived discrimination through DEI initiatives.
• The anticipated outcome includes a legal and operational framework that prioritizes individual merit and compliance with civil rights laws across various sectors of society.