Bill > SB414

This bill, titled the Keep Accreditation About Academics Act, establishes that accrediting agencies, which are entities that grant public recognition to educational institutions based on their standards, should not consider diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) practices when deciding whether to accredit or renew the accreditation of an institution of higher education, which is defined as a public postsecondary educational institution in West Virginia. DEI is defined in the bill as any differential treatment or assignment of blame based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, or gender identity. The bill prohibits accrediting agencies from basing decisions on, collecting information about, or including requirements related to DEI practices or procedures, and mandates that they implement policies to prevent decision-makers from receiving such information. Violations can be enforced through civil actions brought by students or employees of the institution, or by the attorney general, who can seek remedies under civil rights and unfair trade practice laws, and may result in the accrediting agency paying legal fees, damages equivalent to three times the fees paid by the institution, and civil penalties of up to $1,000 per student.

Education

http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=414&year=2026&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill