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Bill

SF 2063

A bill for an act prohibiting courses and content relating to diversity, equity, inclusion, and critical race theory in general education requirements and core curricula at regents institutions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Sandy Salmon

Iowa bill prohibits diversity, equity, inclusion, and critical race theory content in regents universities' general education and core requirements.

Introduced, referred to Education.
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Bill Summary · SF 2063

Legislative bill overview

SF 2063 would prohibit Iowa's regents institutions (University of Iowa, Iowa State University, University of Northern Iowa) from requiring or including courses and content related to diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and critical race theory (CRT) in general education requirements and core curricula. The bill does not appear to ban such courses entirely, but rather removes them from mandatory educational pathways.

Why is this important

This directly affects how thousands of students are educated at Iowa's flagship universities and shapes what foundational knowledge institutions consider essential. The debate reflects broader national tensions over curriculum design, institutional autonomy, and what constitutes appropriate academic content in higher education.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill uses broad terms like "relating to diversity, equity, inclusion" without precise definitions, creating uncertainty about which courses, discussions, or assignments would be prohibited
  • Academic freedom concerns: Critics argue this restricts institutional and faculty autonomy in curriculum decisions and may limit exposure to diverse perspectives in general education
  • Implementation challenges: Determining what "relates to" DEI/CRT requires subjective judgment, potentially creating compliance disputes and chilling effects on course development
  • Educational philosophy divide: Supporters believe DEI/CRT focus diverts from merit-based education; opponents argue these perspectives are legitimate academic subjects relevant to students' understanding of society
  • Practical scope: Unclear whether this affects electives, majors, or only gen-ed requirements, and how existing courses would be reclassified

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

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