Indiana AG Rokita Enforces Merit-Based Law Firm Contracts, Blocks DEI Practices

Indiana Attorney General Todd Rokita has announced a new policy effective October 2025 that prohibits the state from hiring law firms that engage in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices, which he describes as unconstitutional and divisive. The policy bans contracts with firms that consider race or sex in hiring or promotion, require DEI trainings, participate in diversity certification programs like the Mansfield Certification, or maintain DEI offices or committees. Rokita emphasized that the policy protects meritocracy and traditional American values, aligning with recent Supreme Court rulings against race-based policies. The policy applies to all new contracts and renewals but does not affect previously approved agreements. This move is part of a broader trend in Indiana and other states, led by Republican officials including President Trump, to roll back DEI initiatives seen as prioritizing identity over qualifications. Critics and supporters differ on whether these initiatives promote fairness or impose unlawful quotas, as seen in contrasting views on programs like the Mansfield Certification.