The Alabama Policy Institute (API) has expressed support for Senate Bill 129, a law that restricts mandatory Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs and offices in public entities across the state. The bill was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey in March of last year.
According to API, the intention behind SB 129 is not to censor or discriminate but to “restore balance between individual liberty and government overreach in education.” The organization maintains that the law aligns with its mission of promoting free markets, limited government, and strong families. “Government governs best when limited; freedom declines as government’s power increases,” API stated. The group argues that SB 129 prevents state agencies from using taxpayer funds to compel individuals to affirm certain concepts related to race or sex.
API contends that mandatory DEI programs often require participation in surveys or trainings based on specific ideologies, such as Critical Race Theory. They describe these requirements as examples of government overreach and a lack of diversity of thought. The organization clarified: “SB 129 doesn’t prohibit students or faculty from discussing issues of diversity, but it rightly holds that the state should not compel taxpayers to fund these activities or require or coerce any individual to participate in them.”
The institute also connects SB 129’s principles with broader goals for free markets and family autonomy. It asserts that limiting governmental intrusion into educational institutions supports parents’ roles as primary educators and helps ensure students are not taught values conflicting with those of their families.
Alabama’s approach reflects a national trend where states are reassessing DEI initiatives within public institutions. States like Florida, Texas, and Iowa have enacted similar laws restricting DEI offices and mandatory trainings in public universities. For example, Florida prohibits the use of state and federal funds for DEI initiatives while Texas bans public universities from maintaining DEI offices or hiring third parties for those functions.
Opponents have challenged SB 129 through lawsuits claiming violations of First and Fourteenth Amendment rights. However, API argues that the law is constitutionally sound because it does not ban discussions about race or gender but stops the government from compelling speech or funding ideological programs. A federal judge has declined to block enforcement of SB 129 while litigation continues.
API believes enforcing SB 129 is one part of necessary educational reform in Alabama. The organization highlights ongoing teacher pipeline challenges in the state and recommends redesigning university teacher-preparation programs around proven instructional strategies. Citing models from Arizona, Arkansas, and Maryland—such as “Grow Your Own” recruitment programs and university-led tutoring—they suggest Alabama expand partnerships offering early exposure to teaching careers.
Additionally, API calls for accreditation standards focused on outcomes-based metrics like student growth and graduation rates. They advocate for stronger oversight by the State Board of Education over educator-preparation programs (EPPs), increased clinical experience requirements for teacher candidates, and pairing trainees with experienced mentor teachers.
In recent years Alabama has advanced policies on school transparency, choice, and parental rights. According to Stephanie Smith, president and CEO of API: “Defending SB 129 and reforming public education from the inside out isn’t about dismantling or disrespecting public education; rather, improving public education is the key to every state’s success.”