This bill amends Chapter 59, Title 67 of the Idaho Code by adding a new section, 67-5909D, which aims to prohibit the establishment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices and officers at public institutions of higher education in Idaho. It defines key terms related to DEI and outlines various prohibitions, including the banning of diversity trainings, bias reporting systems, and required DEI-related courses. The bill also allows for the reallocation of funds that would have been used for DEI initiatives to merit scholarships for in-state students. Institutions are required to submit annual compliance reports to the attorney general and the education committees of the legislature.
Additionally, the bill grants the attorney general enforcement authority, allowing them to file lawsuits for compliance and seek civil penalties for violations. It provides a private cause of action for students, staff, and alumni against institutions that violate the provisions. The bill includes exemptions for certain academic programs focused on racial, ethnic, or gender studies, and clarifies that it does not limit academic freedom or research activities. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part is found invalid, the remaining provisions will still stand.