Oppose HB7683: Protect Trans Students and DEI Initiatives in Higher Education

I am writing to express my strong opposition to House Bill 7683, which aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. This bill, introduced on March 15, 2024, and currently on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 387), poses significant threats to the rights of transgender students and the progress made in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives on college campuses. The bill's provision for "non-retaliation against students of single-sex social organizations" is particularly concerning. While seemingly innocuous, this language could be weaponized to discriminate against transgender students. By preventing institutions from taking action against organizations that exclude members based on sex, the bill effectively allows fraternities and sororities to bar transgender students from joining without facing any consequences. This is a direct assault on the rights and dignity of transgender students who already face numerous challenges in higher education. Furthermore, HB7683 contains language that could be used to justify the dismantling of crucial DEI initiatives on campuses. These programs are essential for creating inclusive learning environments and preparing students for a diverse workforce. Removing or weakening DEI efforts would be a significant step backward in our ongoing struggle for equality and representation in higher education. It's worth noting that this bill is highly partisan, with 20 Republican sponsors and no Democratic support. The party-line vote of 24-14 in the House Committee on Education and the Workforce further underscores the divisive nature of this legislation. I urge you to vote against HB7683 when it comes before the full House. We must protect the rights of all students, including transgender individuals, and preserve the important work being done through DEI initiatives. Our institutions of higher learning should be bastions of inclusivity and equality, not places where discrimination is codified into law. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. I look forward to hearing about your commitment to opposing this harmful legislation.