Sponsor
Andrew S. Biggs
Representative · R-AZ
Representative · R-AZ
The bill eliminates the State Department’s Special Representative and Equity Action Plan, trading modest reductions in federal roles and administrative burden (and perceived greater diplomatic focus) for diminished U.S. support for racial-equity initiatives abroad, fewer workplace protections and jobs, and potential cost-shifting and service gaps.
Some taxpayers may see modest federal spending reductions because eliminating the Special Representative role and Equity Action Plan cuts associated salaries, administrative overhead, and program funding.
State Department operations could face less administrative/ reporting burden: removing the Equity Action Plan may simplify internal procedures and reduce compliance tasks tied to that initiative.
U.S. diplomacy may remain more narrowly focused on traditional foreign-policy priorities for those who view equity initiatives as politicizing diplomacy, potentially improving perceived neutrality or coherence of some diplomatic engagements.
Racial and ethnic minority communities and foreign partners would lose targeted U.S. diplomatic support: halting the Equity Action Plan would reduce U.S. programs and funding that promote racial equity abroad, weakening support for international racial‑justice initiatives.
Federal employees—especially those from marginalized groups—would face reduced workplace protections and accountability: removing the Special Representative and related equity mechanisms diminishes the State Department’s capacity to identify and remedy discrimination.
Department staff and contractors who supported the Special Representative role would lose jobs or resources when those positions and associated funding are eliminated.
Based on analysis of 2 sections of legislative text.
Prohibits federal funds for the State Department’s Special Representative for Racial Equity and Justice and for implementing the State Department’s Equity Action Plan.
Official title: To prohibit funding to the Special Representative for Racial Equity and Justice of the Department of State, and for other purposes.
Introduced January 3, 2025 by Andrew S. Biggs · Last progress January 3, 2025
Bars the use of federal funds to pay the salary or expenses of the State Department’s Special Representative for Racial Equity and Justice and prohibits spending to implement the Department of State’s Equity Action Plan, effective on enactment. The ban applies notwithstanding any other law, and takes effect immediately.