Key Takeaways The
Executive Order issued on March 26, 2026, “Addressing DEI Discrimination by Federal Contractors,” fundamentally shifts compliance from the broad policy goals of EO 14173 (Jan 2025) into enforceable contractual obligations. Starting April 25, 2026, all new federal contracts and modifications must include a clause prohibiting “racially discriminatory DEI activities,” including race-based recruitment, mentorship, and supplier diversity programs.