In 2023, Governor Stitt issued Executive Order 2023-31 mandating the review and elimination of impermissible diversity, equity, and inclusion activities, requiring universities to certify compliance. The Executive Order has certain exemptions regarding teaching, research, and student organization activities. In 2025, the Oklahoma State Legislature enacted Oklahoma Senate Bill 796 mirroring the 2023-31 Executive Order. In 2025, President Trump and federal governmental enforcement agencies issued guidelines requiring the elimination of illegal diversity, equity, and inclusion activities and programs. These guidelines do not contain similar exemptions to those found in state law, requiring a case-by-case analysis of each activity and program.
None of the state or federal laws or guidance alter a university’s obligations under federal and state law, including the antidiscrimination requirements of Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments Act of 1972, and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.
