WV House Advances Bill to Ban DEI Programs Across Public Institutions

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia House of Delegates is poised to take a final vote on Senate Bill 474, a sweeping measure that would ban nearly all Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs across state agencies, public universities, and K-12 schools.

The bill, which has already passed the Senate, prohibits state-funded entities from offering services, opportunities, or preferences based on race, ethnicity, sex, or country of origin—except where required by federal law. If signed into law, it would effectively dismantle DEI-focused positions and programming across West Virginia’s public institutions.

Supporters of the bill argue that DEI programs amount to government-sponsored discrimination. “Taxpayer dollars should not be used to divide people into categories,” said Delegate Travis Miller (R-Raleigh). “This bill levels the playing field and ensures no West Virginian is treated differently based on their identity.”

But critics warn the bill could have unintended consequences, including suppressing outreach programs and stifling representation efforts for marginalized groups. “This is not about equality—it’s about erasing efforts to correct long-standing imbalances,” said Dr. Monique Harris, a professor at West Virginia University. “DEI initiatives aren’t about special treatment, they’re about equal access to opportunity.”

Though framed as a move toward neutrality, the legislation has stirred strong debate in a state where racial and gender disparities still persist in education and employment. The bill comes on the heels of West Virginia University’s controversial decision to eliminate several DEI positions last year.

If passed by the House, the bill will head to Governor Patrick Morrisey’s desk, where it’s expected to be signed into law. Still, advocates across the state are vowing to continue the fight.

“This conversation is far from over,” said Harris. “Because inclusion shouldn’t be a partisan issue.”

Contributor: Randy Johnson, Mineral Wells