SB2288 would amend the Illinois Civil Administrative Code to prohibit state departments from enforcing any policy that favors or discriminates against a person based on race, sex, or disability. It also requires all state departments to abolish DEIA programs established under the Office of Equity, abolishes the Office of Equity itself, and repeals the Commission on Equity and Inclusion Act.
In practical terms, the bill would eliminate the state’s existing equity-focused administrative structure and bar departments from maintaining or enforcing DEI/DEIA-related programs tied to the Office of Equity. The measure would affect state agencies and any programs, policies, or initiatives created under that office, while also changing the legal framework governing how state departments may consider protected characteristics in policy administration.
Impact
The bill would make direct changes to Illinois state law by adding a new Section 5-731 to the Civil Administrative Code of Illinois and repealing the Commission on Equity and Inclusion Act (30 ILCS 574). It would remove the Office of Equity from state government, require departments to dismantle DEIA programs established under that office, and impose a statewide prohibition on department policies that favor or discriminate against individuals based on race, sex, or disability. The primary affected parties would be state departments, employees, and beneficiaries of equity-related programs.
Sentiment
Based on the bill title and introduced text, the measure appears to be framed as a rollback of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives, suggesting support from sponsors who oppose DEI-style programs and likely criticism from those who view such programs as necessary for equity and inclusion. There is no committee transcript or recorded vote history provided, so the available context does not show any formal debate, amendments, or bipartisan support. The bill is introduced by Sen. Andrew S. Chesney and appears to be presented in a strongly policy-driven, anti-DEI posture.
Contention
The main point of contention is the bill’s treatment of DEIA programs and the Office of Equity. Supporters would likely argue the bill prevents preferential treatment and ensures state neutrality, while opponents would likely contend that abolishing equity programs undermines efforts to address discrimination and improve access for historically underrepresented groups. Another likely dispute is the bill’s broad language prohibiting policies that “favor or discriminate” based on race, sex, or disability, which could raise questions about how existing civil rights, accessibility, and equal opportunity efforts would be affected.