Relating to prohibiting public institutions of higher education from offering programs or courses in DEI studies.

SB 2946 prohibits Texas public universities from offering degree programs, certificates, or courses related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), including any content promoting differential treatment based on race, color, or ethnicity. The bill requires annual audits by the state auditor to ensure compliance, with non-compliant institutions losing state funding until they rectify violations. It also allows students to sue universities for forcing participation in prohibited programs and mandates disciplinary actions against employees (unpaid leave for first violation, termination for repeat offenses), with a state-maintained blacklist restricting future hiring for violators. The law takes effect for the 2026-2027 academic year.