Diversity, equity and inclusion; prohibit instruction, assessment and training on conducted by public schools and charter schools.

HB 1542 prohibits Mississippi public and charter schools receiving state funds from implementing any instruction, assessments, or employee training related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) based on race, color, ethnicity, gender identity, or sexual orientation - except for activities required by court orders or anti-discrimination laws. The bill defines DEI to exclude legally compliant practices and requires schools to submit annual compliance reports to the legislature and state education board. It mandates state audits every four years to ensure no state funds are used for prohibited DEI activities, with penalties including loss of funding if violations persist after 180 days. The bill died in committee on February 4, 2025, and has not become law.