Rep. Gill, Sen. Lee Bill Codifies Merit Over DEI

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Brandon Gill (R-TX) and Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Restoring Equal Opportunity Act which permanently codifies President Trump’s executive order restoring merit-based, race-neutral decision making in hiring and housing by ending the use of “disparate impact” claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Fair Housing Act. This bill ensures employers and housing providers can make decisions based on qualifications and merit, free from race-based legal threats.

“Americans deserve equal opportunity, not race-based quotas,” said Rep. Gill. “Equality under the law is a core American principle, ensuring every citizen’s right to equal protection and due process. I’m proud to introduce the Restoring Equal Opportunity Act alongside Senator Lee to bring merit, rather than DEI, back to our hiring and selection processes.”

Companion legislation was introduced in the Senate by Senator Mike Lee (R-UT).

“Disparate impact has undermined equal opportunity in hiring for generations,” said Sen. Lee. “These policies are antithetical to the Constitution, keeping hardworking men and women from the jobs they deserve. It’s un-American, and it’s going to stop. The Restoring Equal Opportunity Act will prohibit this woke practice and support President Trump’s fight for equality under the law.”

Cosponsor: Rep. Mace

Supporting Groups (3): Heritage Action, Citizens for Renewing America, The Center for Urban Renewal and Education (CURE)

Background

• Title VII bans discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
• In 1971, Griggs v. Duke Power expanded Title VII to include “disparate impact,” forcing employers to consider racial quotas to avoid liability.

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