Summary of SRES 240: Affirming Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility

Bill Overview

• Bill Number: SRES 240
• Title: A resolution affirming that diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility are fundamental values of the United States and emphasizing the ongoing need to address discrimination and inequality in various sectors.
• Status: Introduced in Senate
• Introduced On: May 21, 2025
• Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of SRES 240 is to affirm the importance of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) as foundational values essential for achieving the American Dream. The resolution emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to combat discrimination and inequality across multiple sectors, including:

• The workplace
• Pre-K through 12th grade education
• Higher education systems
• Government programs
• The military
• Society at large

Key Provisions

The resolution includes the following key provisions:

1. Commitment to DEIA:

   • The Senate reaffirms its commitment to DEIA as essential for fostering environments where individuals can thrive, feel safe, and realize their full potential.
   • It recognizes the right of all individuals to be equal members of a multiracial democracy.

2. Encouragement for Action:

   • The resolution encourages local, state, and federal policymakers, as well as educational institutions and workplaces, to:
     • Adopt and promote inclusivity.
     • Expand diversity and accessibility.
     • Remove barriers to equitable opportunities.
     • Provide support for individuals to pursue their dreams, which ultimately benefits society as a whole.

Affected Parties

The resolution aims to impact a wide range of stakeholders, including:

• Policymakers: At local, state, and federal levels.
• Educational Institutions: From pre-K through higher education.
• Workplaces: Encouraging inclusive practices.
• Government Programs: Promoting equitable access and opportunities.
• Military: Addressing diversity and inclusion within armed forces.

Legislative Actions

• May 21, 2025: The bill was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary for further consideration.
• May 21, 2025: The bill was officially introduced in the Senate.

Sponsors

The resolution has a diverse group of sponsors, including:

• Primary Sponsor: Mazie K. Hirono
• Cosponsors:
  • Amy Klobuchar
  • Raphael Warnock
  • Elizabeth A. Warren
  • Timothy M. Kaine
  • Andy Kim
  • Richard Blumenthal
  • Jeanne Shaheen
  • Christopher A. Coons
  • Richard J. Durbin
  • Peter Welch
  • Jeff Merkley
  • Edward J. Markey
  • Tammy Duckworth
  • Adam B. Schiff
  • Cory Booker
  • Tammy Baldwin
  • Tina Smith
  • Alex Padilla
  • Sheldon Whitehouse

Related Legislation

• HRES 569: A companion resolution that addresses similar themes of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility.

This resolution serves as a call to action for various sectors to prioritize DEIA, aiming to foster a more inclusive and equitable society.