Summary of HR 3518: Prohibition on Federal Financial Assistance for Graduate Medical Schools with DEI Policies

Bill Overview

Bill Number: HR 3518

Title: To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit graduate medical schools from receiving Federal financial assistance if such schools adopt certain policies and requirements relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Introduced: May 20, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Gregory F. Murphy

Cosponsors: 14 additional members

Purpose and Intent

The primary intent of HR 3518 is to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to restrict federal financial assistance to graduate medical schools that implement specific diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies. The bill aims to ensure that these institutions do not compel or incentivize faculty, staff, or students to adopt certain beliefs or practices related to race, ethnicity, or other identity categories as a condition for receiving educational benefits or opportunities.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several key provisions that graduate medical schools must adhere to in order to qualify for federal funding:

1. Certification Requirements:

   • Institutions must certify that they do not:
     • Compel individuals to express beliefs regarding oppression or privilege based on identity categories.
     • Adversely affect students' educational opportunities based on race, ethnicity, or national origin.
     • Require courses that compel students to adopt specific tenets related to DEI.
     • Maintain offices or programs focused on DEI.
     • Require diversity statements as a condition for admission or employment.

2. Compliance with Civil Rights Laws:

   • Institutions must certify compliance with applicable civil rights laws, including:
     • Titles IV and VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
     • Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.
     • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
     • The Age Discrimination Act of 1975.

3. Definitions:

   • The bill defines terms such as "diversity, equity, and inclusion office" and "diversity statement," clarifying the scope of what is considered a violation of the proposed restrictions.

Impact

If enacted, HR 3518 would significantly impact graduate medical schools that currently have DEI policies or programs. Schools that do not comply with the bill's requirements would be ineligible for federal financial assistance, which could include funding for student loans and grants. This could lead to a reduction in resources available for students and potentially alter the landscape of medical education in the United States.

Legislative Process

• Referred to Committee: The bill was referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce on the same day it was introduced.
• Related Legislation: HR 3518 has a companion bill, S 1811, which is being considered in the Senate.

Conclusion

HR 3518 seeks to reshape the funding landscape for graduate medical schools by imposing restrictions on DEI policies. The bill's passage could have far-reaching implications for educational practices and the availability of federal support for medical education.