Attorney General Kwame Raoul announced on Mar. 27 that he joined a group of 12 attorneys general in filing a comment letter against a proposal by the General Services Administration (GSA) which would require federal funding recipients to comply with Trump administration guidance and executive orders affecting diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
The coalition argues that the GSA’s proposed changes could discourage organizations from engaging in lawful activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. They also say the requirements would impose unnecessary burdens on applicants for federal funding.
“Diversity initiatives are lawful and essential to the success of business and learning environments,” Raoul said. “I will stand with those who are challenging this administration’s attempts to eliminate these programs and turn back the clock on the important progress that has been made toward equity.”
According to the notice published by GSA on Jan. 27, all applicants for federal funds must register with SAM.gov, agreeing to amended certifications if this proposal is adopted. The letter from Raoul and other attorneys general urges GSA to withdraw its plan, stating it creates redundant certification demands without clear justification or legal authority. The coalition also claims it violates procedural requirements for public notice and comment, exceeds congressional authority granted to GSA, fails constitutional spending rules regarding clarity of conditions for recipients, and may have a coercive effect.
The Illinois Attorney General has advocated for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, and seniors according to its official website. The office handles thousands of consumer complaints each year according to its official website, works to protect consumers while promoting safer communities as well as environmental issues according to its official website, extends advocacy efforts across Illinois according to its official website, partners with law enforcement agencies in support of crime victims according to its official website, and offers services such as complaint filing for consumer fraud or civil rights violations according to its official website.
Joining Raoul in signing the letter were attorneys general from Arizona, California, Colorado, District of Columbia, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Oregon and Washington.