In a decisive move, Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe has signed Executive Order 25-18, effectively eliminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs across all state agencies.
This order, signed on February 18, 2025, prohibits the allocation of state funds to DEI initiatives and bars the consideration of DEI factors in hiring decisions within state departments.
Key Directives of Executive Order 25-18
The executive order outlines several critical mandates for state agencies:
- Equal Protection Enforcement: Agencies are required to uphold the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law, ensuring that all individuals receive fair and impartial consideration.
- Prohibition of DEI Funding: The use of public funds for DEI-related positions, policies, procedures, activities, training, programs, or contracts is strictly forbidden.
- Hiring Practices Reform: State agencies are instructed to eliminate DEI considerations from their hiring processes, promoting a merit-based system.
- Comprehensive Compliance Review: Within 90 days, all agencies must conduct a thorough review of existing contracts, programs, and policies to ensure adherence to the new directives.
Governor Kehoe’s Rationale
Governor Kehoe emphasized the state’s commitment to a “constitutional, color-blind approach” that serves all citizens fairly. He stated, “Missourians deserve a government that treats all individuals equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination based on immutable characteristics.”
The governor believes that this order will foster an environment of fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making within state government.
Implications for State Agencies
The immediate impact of this order requires all state agencies to:
- Cease DEI Activities: Discontinue any ongoing DEI programs, training sessions, or related activities.
- Financial Reallocation: Redirect funds previously allocated to DEI initiatives to other areas within the agency.
- Policy and Contract Assessment: Review and amend existing policies, contracts, and programs to ensure they do not conflict with the executive order.
Comparison with Federal Actions
Governor Kehoe’s executive order mirrors actions taken at the federal level. Recently, President Donald Trump signed an order targeting DEI initiatives, which has led to significant changes in various institutions.
For instance, universities have been compelled to suspend DEI-related research projects and close offices dedicated to diversity efforts to comply with the federal mandate.
These federal directives have prompted institutions to reassess their programs to avoid potential funding losses.
Reactions and Controversies
The executive order has elicited a range of responses:
- Supporters argue that the elimination of DEI programs will promote a merit-based system, ensuring equal treatment without preferential biases.
- Critics contend that removing DEI initiatives may undermine efforts to address historical inequalities and could negatively impact underrepresented communities.
Notably, similar actions at the federal level have faced legal challenges, indicating potential judicial scrutiny of such orders.
Summary of Executive Order 25-18 Directives
| Directive | Description |
|---|---|
| Equal Protection Enforcement | Uphold the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law. |
| Prohibition of DEI Funding | Ban the use of public funds for DEI-related positions, policies, procedures, activities, training, programs, or contracts. |
| Hiring Practices Reform | Remove DEI considerations from state hiring processes to promote merit-based decisions. |
| Comprehensive Compliance Review | Mandate a 90-day review period for all agencies to assess and ensure existing contracts, programs, and policies comply with the executive order. |
This table encapsulates the primary directives outlined in Executive Order 25-18, reflecting the state’s new approach to governance concerning diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Governor Mike Kehoe’s executive order to abolish Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in Missouri’s state agencies marks a significant policy shift.
While it aims to establish a uniform, merit-based system, the long-term effects on state operations and community relations remain to be seen.
As agencies implement these changes, ongoing dialogue and legal evaluations are likely to shape the future landscape of diversity and inclusion efforts within the state.