Bill > SF3286

This bill, known as the Intellectual Freedom Protection Act, aims to regulate public postsecondary institutions in Minnesota by prohibiting them from conditioning admission, hiring, or promotion on an applicant's or faculty member's statements of support or opposition to political ideologies, including diversity, equity, inclusion, or patriotism. The bill specifically prevents institutions from requiring pledges of allegiance to particular political movements and from making admissions or employment decisions based on such viewpoints. While maintaining this restriction, the bill allows institutions to require compliance with federal and state laws, protect academic freedom, and consider candidates' academic qualifications. Institutions are required to publicly post all training materials and policies related to nondiscrimination and diversity on their websites. The bill provides legal recourse for individuals whose rights are violated, allowing them to seek declaratory relief, damages, and attorney fees in state or federal court within one year of an alleged violation. Additionally, the attorney general can file suit against institutions, with potential civil penalties of $100,000 per violation, and institutions may take disciplinary action against employees found to have violated the act's provisions.

Education

https://www.revisor.mn.gov/bills/bill.php?b=Senate&f=SF3286&ssn=0&y=2025