Gov. Beshear vetoes bill banning DEI programs at Kentucky universities

FRANKFORT, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) – Democratic Governor Andy Beshear has vetoed House Bill 4, a controversial measure that would ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at Kentucky’s public colleges and universities.

The bill, passed last week by the Republican-controlled Senate and House, would require state-funded colleges and universities to dismantle their DEI programs by June 30 if it becomes law.

Gov. Beshear announced his veto during a press event Thursday alongside Lexington NAACP President Whit Whitaker, calling the measure hateful.

“We love and we accept everyone. This bill isn’t about love. House Bill 4 is about hate. So I’m going to try a little act of love myself, and I’m going to veto it right now,” said Beshear.

House Bill 4 now returns to the legislature, where lawmakers could override Beshear’s veto with a majority vote when they reconvene in Frankfort next week.