HB 436 prohibits governmental entities, including state agencies, local governments, school districts, and other political subdivisions (excluding institutions of higher education), from requiring employees, prospective employees, or contractors to provide diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) statements or participate in DEI training as a condition of employment, hiring, or contract eligibility. Exceptions are allowed for DEI activities necessary to comply with federal law. The bill permits employees or contractors to file civil actions for declaratory and injunctive relief if subjected to DEI requirements in violation of the law and mandates that governmental entities establish disciplinary policies for employees imposing such requirements. It also prohibits DEI-related criteria in awarding government contracts, with exceptions for data collection and federal compliance. The act takes effect on September 1, 2025, unless enacted immediately by an emergency vote.