Bill > S1198

This bill seeks to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives in Idaho's higher education institutions by prohibiting DEI offices, officers, diversity training, bias reporting systems, and certain DEI-related courses. The legislation defines DEI broadly, encompassing concepts from critical theory such as systemic racism, intersectionality, and gender theory, and restricts institutions from discriminating based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin in admissions and hiring. Public higher education institutions must submit annual compliance reports to the attorney general, and funds previously allocated to DEI programs can be redirected to merit scholarships for in-state students. The bill allows students and staff to seek injunctive relief for violations and grants the attorney general enforcement powers, including the ability to investigate complaints and impose civil penalties. Importantly, the bill includes exemptions for legally required compliance training, academic research, student organizations, guest speakers, and support for American Indian students. The legislation does not retroactively apply and will take effect on July 1, 2025, with the stated intent of protecting academic freedom and eliminating what the bill's authors describe as a "subversive ideology" in higher education.

Education, Government Affairs, Justice

State Affairs Committee (S)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/S1198/