21 Democratic states sue Trump administration over anti-DEI federal contractor executive order implementation

A coalition of 21 state attorneys general and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland challenging federal agency implementation of Trump's Executive Order 14398, which bars federal contractors from engaging in "racially discriminatory DEI activities." The lawsuit (Maryland v. Hegseth) argues that federal agencies violated the Administrative Procedure Act by imposing new contract terms without public comment, clear guidance, or explanation of how they differ from existing anti-discrimination laws. The order effectively prohibits diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at universities, state agencies, and private contractors receiving federal funds, impacting hiring practices, training programs, and educational initiatives. Maryland AG Anthony Brown stated the "poorly defined mandates cause confusion for contractors like Maryland's State agencies and universities." The states argue the vague language creates a chilling effect on l...

"The prescribed contract term is unclear and does not provide sufficient explanation of what it prohibits." — Maryland Attorney General Anthony Brown's statement in the lawsuit filing, describing the confusion created by the executive order's vague language for state contractors and universities