Attorney General Ken Paxton has initiated a multistate effort by sending letters to twenty law firms, questioning their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) employment practices. These practices are suspected of potentially violating federal anti-discrimination laws and state laws against deceptive trade practices.
"The blatantly illegal employment discrimination perpetuated by law firms and other businesses under un-American DEI ideology must be brought to an immediate and permanent end," noted Attorney General Paxton. "I am leading the charge at the state level to support President Trump’s efforts to end this insanity and restore equal treatment. Employers should look at qualifications, not quotas, in their hiring decisions."
On March 17, Commissioner Andrea Lucas, acting as the Chair of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a role assigned by President Trump, also sent letters seeking information. These letters aim to determine whether any unlawful and discriminatory actions have occurred through DEI-related employment policies. Federal law permits states to enforce employment discrimination laws to prevent the use of policies that promote employment based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. States can also enforce laws against deceptive trade practices.
Paxton has urged the law firms to comply with the Trump Administration’s request and submit the requested information to all Attorneys General in the coalition by April 15. This disclosure will help determine if any laws have been violated and whether enforcement is warranted to ensure adherence to lawful employment standards.
For further details, the letter is available for review.