2024 House Bill 9: AN ACT relating to postsecondary education and declaring an emergency

HB 9 aims to prevent the promotion of “discriminatory” diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) concepts on college campuses. It prohibits institutions from providing differential treatment to applicants, creating any scholarship criteria, or changing the composition of the student body based on religion, race, sex, or national origin. This bill would also defund all DEI offices, training, initiatives, and promotional materials. Additionally, institutions can’t require students to take courses dedicated to promoting DEI initiatives as a graduation or degree requirement. Credits earned after January 1, 2024, dedicated to the promotion of DEI won’t count toward the total number of credits required for a degree, certificate, or diploma. All of these restrictions relating to the promotion of DEI initiatives will also apply to the Council for Postsecondary Education. The Council will publish an annual assessment to evaluate the extent to which students, faculty, and staff are exposed to a variety of political and ideological perspectives and have the freedom to express their viewpoints.

KSVT does not support this bill as the promotion of diversity, equity, and inclusion on college campuses is not discriminatory, but instead can help students broaden their perspectives and develop critical thinking skills. Defunding DEI offices on campuses would remove important tools in supporting marginalized student populations and promoting inclusivity, multicultural awareness, and celebration of diversity.