The proposed bill, known as the Intellectual Freedom Protection Act, aims to regulate public postsecondary institutions in Minnesota by prohibiting them from conditioning admission or employment on an individual's allegiance to or support for any political ideology, including topics related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It establishes that institutions cannot request or require pledges or statements regarding these ideologies from applicants or faculty members. Additionally, if such statements are received, they cannot be used as a basis for granting or denying admission or employment benefits.
The bill also provides a private right of action for individuals whose rights are violated under this section, allowing them to seek declaratory relief and damages in court. The attorney general is granted the authority to file suit against institutions for violations, with the potential for civil penalties of up to $100,000 for each infraction. Furthermore, institutions are required to publicly post all training materials related to nondiscrimination and related policies on their websites. The legislation emphasizes that it does not restrict academic freedom or compliance with federal and state laws.