This bill amends Iowa Code chapter 261J to include community colleges under the definition of public institutions of higher education. As a result, community colleges will be subject to the same prohibitions as other public institutions regarding the establishment of diversity, equity, and inclusion offices. Specifically, the bill prohibits these institutions from requiring individuals to submit diversity, equity, or inclusion statements or from providing preferential treatment based on such statements, unless mandated by federal or state law or accreditation standards.

Additionally, the bill mandates that public institutions of higher education, including community colleges, must submit annual compliance reports to the general assembly and the governor, with enforcement of these provisions falling under the jurisdiction of the attorney general. This legislative change aims to restrict the activities related to diversity, equity, and inclusion within community colleges in Iowa.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 261J.1