Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe eliminates DEI programs in state agencies

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe issued an executive order Tuesday, directing all state agencies in the Show-Me State to eliminate Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives.

Kehoe’s order bars the use of Missouri funds for DEI and prevents agencies from using DEI as a consideration in their hiring decisions.

“Missourians deserve a government that treats all individuals equally, without preferential treatment or discrimination based on immutable characteristics,” said Governor Kehoe. “Our state agencies must operate under a framework that ensures fairness, equal opportunity, and merit-based decision-making. This order reaffirms Missouri’s commitment to a constitutional, color-blind approach that serves all citizens fairly.”

READ MORE: Trump istration gives schools a deadline to end DEI programs or risk losing federal money

The order comes as President Donald Trump and his istration is giving American schools and universities two weeks to eliminate diversity initiatives before they risk losing federal money. In a memo Friday, the Education Department gave an ultimatum to stop using “racial preferences” as a factor in issions, financial aid, hiring or other areas.

Kehoe’s executive order includes several key directives:

• Equal Protection of All People: State agencies must uphold the constitutional principle of equal treatment under the law;
• Elimination of Public Funds for DEI: State agencies are barred from using public funds for DEI-related positions, organizational structures, policies, procedures, practices, activities, training, programs, or contracts;
• Prohibition on Considering DEI in State Hiring Decisions: Agencies are prohibited from considering DEI factors in hiring decisions; and
• Compliance Review: Agencies must conduct a comprehensive review of existing contracts, programs, and policies within 90 days to ensure full compliance with the directive.

Kehoe’s office said the order does not apply to “any requirements or state statute that uphold the rights and freedoms of Missouri citizens.” Laws that prohibit discrimination will continue to be enforced.

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