TITLE: Relating to the consideration by a governmental entity of the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives of a business bidding on a contract with the governmental entity.

SUMMARY: Relating to the consideration by a governmental entity of the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives of a business bidding on a contract with the governmental entity.

FULL TEXT:
AN ACT relating to the consideration by a governmental entity of the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives of a business bidding on a contract with the governmental entity. BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: SECTION 1. Subchapter Z, Chapter 2252, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 2252.911 to read as follows: Sec. 2252.911. PROHIBITED CONSIDERATIONS IN CONTRACTING. (a) In this section, "governmental entity" has the meaning assigned by Section 2252.001. (b) Notwithstanding any other law, a governmental entity may not refuse to award a contract or provide differential treatment to a person submitting a bid for a contract on the basis that the person submitting the bid: (1) has a diversity, equity, and inclusion department; (2) solicits employees to provide a diversity, equity, and inclusion statement; or (3) promotes the participation of an employee resource group related to diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution.