WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HSB 56

A bill for an act establishing completion of a course on American history and civil government as a requirement for the completion of a baccalaureate degree program at a public institution of higher education.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HSB 56 mandates public college students to complete a course on American history and civil government, enhancing civics education for informed citizenship.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 402.
#civics #collegesanduniversities #curricula #degreesanddiplomas #education #history
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HSB 56

Summary of HSB 56 - Increasing Civics Proficiency in Higher Education Act

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HSB 56
Title: Increasing Civics Proficiency in Higher Education Act
Status: Renumbered as HF 402 after committee report approval
Introduced: January 22, 2025
Classification: Proposed Bill
Subject Areas: Civics, Colleges and Universities, Curricula, Degrees and Diplomas, Education, History

Purpose and Intent

The Increasing Civics Proficiency in Higher Education Act aims to enhance the understanding of American history and civil government among students at public institutions of higher education. The bill establishes a requirement for students to complete a course on these subjects as part of their baccalaureate degree program.

Key Provisions

  • Course Requirement: The bill mandates that all students pursuing a baccalaureate degree at public colleges and universities must complete a course focused on American history and civil government.
  • Definitions: The bill includes specific definitions to clarify key concepts:
    • Basic Principles of the United States’ Republican Form of Government: This encompasses fundamental ideas such as balance of power, consent of the governed, individual liberties, and the rule of law.
    • Founding Documents: The bill identifies significant texts that should be included in the curriculum, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and writings from key historical figures like Thomas Paine and Alexis de Tocqueville.
    • Historical Development: The curriculum should cover important historical events and debates that shaped the U.S. government, including the Federalist and Anti-Federalist debates and the rise of political parties.

Impact

  • Students: The primary group affected by this legislation will be students enrolled in public institutions of higher education, who will need to fulfill this new requirement to graduate.
  • Educational Institutions: Colleges and universities will need to adapt their curricula to include the mandated course, which may involve hiring new faculty or developing new course materials.

Legislative Timeline

  • January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Higher Education committee.
  • January 28, 2025: Initial subcommittee meeting scheduled (later canceled).
  • February 3, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.
  • February 5, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.
  • February 12, 2025: Committee report recommending passage is issued, with a vote of 7 in favor and 4 against.
  • February 13, 2025: Bill approved by committee and renumbered as HF 402.

Conclusion

HSB 56 seeks to strengthen civics education in higher education by requiring a dedicated course on American history and civil government for all baccalaureate degree candidates at public institutions. This legislation reflects a commitment to fostering informed citizenship and understanding of governmental principles among future leaders.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.