Anti-DEI bill narrowly clears committee; critics warn it risks loss of federal aid

A controversial bill ( HB 392 ) that calls for eliminating all diversity, equity and inclusion activities throughout state government narrowly cleared a key committee last week over the claims of critics that it could jeopardize up to $100 million in federal aid.

In an unusual move, House Health, Human Services and Elderly Affairs Committee Chairman Wayne MacDonald, R-Londonderry, opposed the measure even though it had the backing of House Majority Leader Jason Osborne, R-Auburn, and his leadership team.

“I don’t believe this bill accomplishes what it intends, as well-intentioned as it is,” said MacDonald, a retired staffer in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), which is against the bill.

During an interview, MacDonald said he shared the view of opponents that, as writ