This bill amends Idaho Code by adding a new section, 67-5909D, which establishes provisions regarding prohibited acts in higher education. The legislative intent is to prevent institutions of higher education from engaging in discriminatory practices and to ensure equality of opportunity for all students, regardless of personal identity characteristics. The bill defines "diversity, equity, and inclusion ideology" (DEI ideology) and outlines specific actions that institutions must take, including not using personal identity characteristics in employment or educational decisions, not promoting DEI ideology through central offices or initiatives, and not requiring declarations of gender identity or preferred pronouns. Institutions are also mandated to have a reporting process for violations and to discipline employees who violate these provisions.
Furthermore, the bill imposes financial penalties for verified violations, with escalating fines for repeated offenses, and mandates that institutions report violations to the state board of education along with corrective action plans. The state board has the authority to recover funds used in violation of this section and to conduct audits on entities with multiple violations. The bill also clarifies that it does not prevent compliance with federal and state laws or the support of American Indian students through designated programs. An emergency clause is included, making the act effective on July 1, 2025.