New Bill Aims to End Discrimination in Government Contracting

A bill introduced by Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) seeks to tackle what he describes as discrimination in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices. His intention, he mentions, is to “restore merit-based partnerships” in how the government awards contracts.

Titled the Antidiscrimination in Government Contracts Act, the proposal aims to remove current quotas, mandates, and programs that push companies to secure government contracts based on the owner’s race or gender.

The legislation would specifically dismantle federal DEI initiatives, including the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise and the Minority Business Development Act of 2021. Additionally, it would cut DEI incentives offered by agencies like the Department of Transportation.

Importantly, the bill wouldn’t prevent federal agencies from favoring contracts awarded to local or veteran-owned businesses.

Lee stated that “unconstitutional discrimination disguised as ‘DEI’ has infected the federal government.” He believes that awarding contracts based on race and gender is simply “racist and sexist.” He emphasized that such policies overlook the core values of the nation and misuse taxpayer money on subpar projects. His view is that contracts should focus on ability and performance, not on skin color or gender.

Rep. Glenn Grossman (R-Wis.), who co-sponsored the bill, noted that this issue resonates personally with many voters in his district. “Companies in my area are missing out on contracts even though they provide high-quality products at low costs. It’s not just unfair; it’s wasteful,” he remarked.

He stressed that government contracting preferences based on race or gender are fundamentally unjust and don’t align with the views of many Americans. According to Grossman, contracts ought to be awarded purely on merit, as the Constitution guarantees equal protection for all.