Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed a lawsuit against Starbucks on Tuesday, alleging the coffee giant engages in discriminatory hiring practices that violate state anti-discrimination laws. The lawsuit centers around Starbucks' diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, specifically programs aimed at increasing representation of Black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) employees.

Bailey contends that Starbucks' goals of achieving at least 30% BIPOC representation at all corporate levels and 40% in retail and manufacturing roles by 2025 constitute unlawful discrimination. He argues these practices force Missouri consumers to endure higher prices and longer wait times due to the company prioritizing diversity over qualifications.

Starbucks is facing legal action in Missouri over its employment practices. (Getty Images)

Bailey stated his commitment to protecting Missourians from systemic discrimination, emphasizing that "racism has no place in Missouri." He bases his legal argument on the recent Supreme Court ruling against race-based college admissions, asserting its applicability to employment practices as well.

The lawsuit also alleges discriminatory practices in board membership selection based on race and gender. These actions, Bailey's office stated, are unlawful under the Missouri Human Rights Act.

Missouri Attorney General Andrew Bailey initiated legal proceedings against Starbucks. (Vanessa Abbitt/St. Louis Post-Dispatch/Tribune News Service via Getty Images)

This legal challenge follows recent news of potential Starbucks layoffs. CEO Brian Niccol warned employees of impending job cuts as part of the company's "Back to Starbucks" strategy, aimed at improving the customer experience and increasing efficiency.

A Starbucks employee prepares beverages. (iStock)

Niccol acknowledged the difficulty of these decisions but stressed the necessity of streamlining operations. The full text of the lawsuit filed by Missouri is available for public review.