MT HB635

Prohibits state and local government agencies from funding, establishing, or requiring employee participation in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, defined as programs that influence hiring/employment practices based on race, sex, ethnicity, national origin, or religion beyond neutral practices or legal compliance

Bans agencies from requiring or giving preferential consideration to DEI statements from employees or job applicants

Defines prohibited "divisive concepts" including teachings that one race or sex is inherently superior, that individuals bear responsibility for historical actions of their race/sex, or that meritocracy is racist or sexist

Grants the Attorney General investigatory authority including subpoena power, with civil fines up to $10,000 per violation for agencies that violate the law or disobey court orders

Creates private right of action allowing adversely affected individuals to sue for actual damages or $5,000 per violation; exempts compliance with federal law, court orders, tribal sovereignty, and sexual harassment training