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Bill

HB 2198

State Government - As introduced, enacts the "DEI Compliance Certification Act." - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 8 and Title 49.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jason Zachary

Tennessee bill would establish DEI compliance certification requirements affecting state agencies, educational institutions, and employers, with unclear specifics on implementation scope.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Departments & Agencies Subcommittee of State & Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 2198

Legislative bill overview

HB 2198 proposes the "DEI Compliance Certification Act," which would amend Tennessee's state government code (Title 4), education code (Title 8), and labor code (Title 49). The bill appears designed to create certification or compliance requirements related to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, though specific provisions are not yet publicly detailed in available legislative records.

Why is this important

This bill would directly affect how state agencies, educational institutions, and employers in Tennessee handle DEI initiatives. Depending on its specific language, it could either mandate DEI compliance documentation or restrict DEI program implementation—both scenarios would have significant operational and budgetary implications for affected organizations.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope and definition ambiguity: The bill's exact requirements remain unclear, making it difficult to assess whether it expands or limits DEI programs
  • Implementation costs: Certification requirements could impose administrative and compliance costs on state agencies, schools, and private employers
  • Philosophical divide: DEI policies remain politically contentious, with supporters viewing them as necessary equity measures and opponents seeing them as discriminatory or ideologically driven

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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