A reference to diversity, equity and inclusion was removed from Erie’s 2026 Legislative Agenda after some members of the Town Council raised concerns that explicit DEI language could put future federal funding at risk.
The legislative agenda is a guiding document that allows town staff and officials to testify for or against proposed bills at the state legislature and sign onto regional policy positions that align with the town’s priorities.
During a Jan. 6 discussion of the draft agenda where it was ultimately adopted, Town Council members debated a part stating the town should “ensure state and federal policies are developed with a lens toward diversity, equity, and inclusion.”…