Merit Restoration Act (H.R. 9103)

Summary

Stops federal research groups and grant recipients from using diversity, equity, or inclusion practices when giving out or using federal research money.

What problem does this solve?

Some believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies in federal research grant awards lead to unfair consideration based on factors other than merit. This bill bans federal research agencies and grant recipients from using these DEI practices, ensuring awards are based on the quality of the research.

What does this bill do?

Bans DEI practices for federal research agencies

Forbids federal agencies that give out research money from using any prohibited diversity, equity, or inclusion practice when deciding who gets a grant.

Bans DEI practices for grant recipients

Prevents any person or group that receives a federal research grant from using prohibited diversity, equity, or inclusion practices while conducting their research.

Defines prohibited DEI practices

Defines a 'prohibited practice' as discriminating based on race, sex, or origin, or requiring employees to agree that certain groups are inherently superior, inferior, oppressed, or privileged.

Creates penalties for violations

Requires a federal agency to freeze funds if a grant recipient is accused of violating the ban. If found guilty, the recipient must pay back any federal money used for the violation.

Who does this affect?

Researchers and scientists
Universities and research institutions
Federal research agencies

What is the real world impact?

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Reduces support for underrepresented researchers

Could stop efforts designed to help scientists from different backgrounds get funding. Critics might say this makes it harder for these groups to succeed in research fields and reduces diverse perspectives in science.

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Ensures merit-based research funding

Aims to make sure that federal money for research is given out based on the quality of the science, not on factors like a person's race, sex, or ethnicity.

When does this start?

The new rules will apply to any federal research grant agreements made on or after the day this bill becomes law.