# Summary of S. 4516 — Dismantle DEI Act of 2024
This bill would eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs across the federal government and organizations receiving federal funds. The legislation defines "prohibited diversity, equity, or inclusion practices" as activities that discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, biological sex, or national origin, or require employees to complete training asserting that certain groups are inherently superior or inferior.
The bill would require federal agencies to close DEI offices and related positions within 90 days, rescind specific executive orders related to racial equity and gender identity, and prohibit federal funding for DEI training courses and initiatives. It extends these restrictions to federal contractors, grant recipients, and cooperative agreement partners. The bill also eliminates DEI programs in the Department of Defense, applies restrictions to educational accreditation standards, and repeals offices focused on minority inclusion at financial regulators. Additionally, it creates a private right of action allowing individuals to sue for violations, with potential damages of at least $1,000 per violation per day, plus attorney's fees and other relief.
The bill carves out exceptions for Equal Employment Opportunity offices and Americans with Disabilities Act enforcement. The legislation affects millions of federal employees, contractors, grant recipients, educational institutions, and financial firms, and would eliminate funding and staffing for diversity-related positions government-wide.