FRANKFORT, Ky. — Gov. Andy Beshear has vetoed House Bill 4. The Bill would ban diversity, equity and inclusion efforts at Kentucky’s public universities, including race-based scholarships, admissions and hiring efforts.

What You Need To Know

  • Gov. Beshar vetoed House Bill 4, which would ban diversity, equity and inclusion efforts

  • The bill's sponsor and other Republicans say the bill puts everyone on an even playing field

  • Beshear said the bill is about hate

  • Since Republicans hold a supermajority, the veto will likely be overturned

Beshear has been vocal in his opposition to the bill, calling diversity a strength for Kentucky.

He reaffirmed his commitment to DEI in a video he released on social media. He said, “I’ll always believe that diversity is a strength and never a weakness. That we are better with more voices and more seats at our table. Now I believe in the golden rule that says we love our neighbor as ourself. And there are no exceptions, no asterisks. We love and accept everyone. This bill isn’t about love. House Bill 4 is about hate.”

Bill sponsor State Representative Jennifer Decker, R-Waddy and other Republicans said the bill puts everyone on an even playing field. Decker said the bill does not target students of any race or backgrounds.

“This bill solely aims at unconstitutional DEI initiatives, offices and officers that promote or provide differential treatment or benefits to individuals on the basis of religion, race, color, sex and national origin,” Decker said.

Beshear’s veto is likely to be overturned with Republicans—who have made removing DEI programs a priority, holding a supermajority in the legislature. The original bill passed overwhelmingly in both the House and the Senate. 

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