JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – A federal judge will decide whether to keep blocking Mississippi’s new diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) law. A motion hearing was held at the Thad Cochran United States Courthouse in Jackson on August 5.

U.S. District Judge Henry T. Wingate considered whether to extend a temporary order blocking House Bill 1193. The law bans public schools and colleges from requiring or promoting DEI statements or programs.

Gov. Tate Reeves (R-Miss.) signed the bill in April, and it took effect immediately. However, Wingate issued a temporary restraining order on July 20.

The Mississippi Center for Justice is leading the legal challenge. Attorney Rob McDuff is representing students, teachers and parents who said the law is confusing and dangerous.

“Teachers, students, parents and students have a hard time telling what is permitted from what is prohibited by this law. So, we hope the judge is going to issue an order preventing it from being enforced until he has the time to examine the full case in the coming months,” said McDuff.

He doesn’t expect a final ruling on August 5, but he believes a decision on a temporary block could come soon.

Attorney Lisa Repetto, who represents the state, argued that the law does not violate free speech rights. She said the law simply allows state government to direct the policies of public schools and universities.