Summary of Proposed Kansas legislation (HB 2428) Impacting Universities
This article details a bill (HB 2428) currently under consideration in the Kansas House that would considerably restrict Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives at the state’s public universities, including the University of Kansas (KU).Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
Key Provisions of the bill:
* Restrictions on DEI-Related Courses: The bill would prevent universities from requiring students to take courses with content related to DEI or Critical Race Theory (CRT) as part of their degree programs.
* Exceptions: Degree programs specifically focused on racial, ethnic, or gender studies would be allowed to require such courses.
* Definition of Prohibited Content: The bill provides a broad definition of “DEI-CRT-related content,” including topics like whiteness, systemic racism, microaggressions, gender identity, social justice, and the idea that colorblind laws can perpetuate oppression.
* Academic Freedom: The bill states it doesn’t restrict professors’ academic freedom to teach DEI concepts, but those courses can’t be required for most degrees.
* Limits on DEI Training for Faculty: Universities would be prohibited from requiring or incentivizing DEI workshops for faculty, and non-participation couldn’t negatively impact employee reviews or tenure considerations.
* Mandatory “American Institutions” Course: Universities would be required to include a course on “American Institutions” in general education requirements, focusing on the Constitution, limited government, separation of powers, equal protection, freedom of speech, and founding documents.
* Freshman Orientation: Freshman orientation programs would need to include information about the First Amendment and the importance of free speech and viewpoint diversity.
Reactions & Concerns:
* Faculty senate Concerns: Faculty senate leaders across the state are discussing the potential impact of the bill on classroom activities.
* Uncertainty about Implementation: There’s concern about whether administrators will approve DEI-focused courses if thay can’t be required for degrees, or if they’ll pressure professors to alter their teaching.
* Protests: Students at KU have already protested a merger of student offices related to diversity.
Sponsors:
* Rep. Kristey Williams (R-augusta)
* Susan Humphries (R-Wichita)
* Rep. Bob Lewis (R-garden City)
The bill is seen as part of a broader national trend of Republican lawmakers seeking to restrict DEI initiatives on college campuses.
