The Increasing Civic Proficiency in Higher Education Act mandates that the state board of regents require all institutions of higher education under its governance to include introductory survey courses in American history and American government as part of their general education requirements. Each course must carry a minimum of three semester hours of credit and cannot focus primarily on subgroups of Americans or other nationalities. This requirement will apply to undergraduate students starting their enrollment in academic years beginning on or after July 1, 2028. Additionally, institutions must provide equivalent credit for transfer students who have completed similar coursework. The board of regents is also tasked with reviewing all undergraduate general education requirements and core curricula by December 31, 2026.

Furthermore, the Act establishes new provisions for the centers of intellectual freedom, cyclone civics, and civic education at their respective universities. These centers are required to offer at least one three-semester credit hour course in American history and one in American government, ensuring that these courses meet the general education requirements set by the institutions. The bill also introduces a requirement for these centers to create ongoing lecture and debate series that promote civil dialogue on significant issues facing the American republic by December 31, 2026. Additionally, the directors of the centers must submit annual reports detailing their achievements and challenges to the governor, the general assembly, and the board of regents.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 262.100