The proposed bill amends the Public School Code of 1949 to establish prohibitions and requirements for public institutions of higher education in Pennsylvania, focusing on the preservation of academic freedom and the promotion of diverse viewpoints. Key provisions include the prohibition of ideological oaths or statements that could undermine academic freedom, as well as the establishment of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) offices. Institutions are barred from compelling students or employees to endorse ideologies that promote differential treatment based on race or ethnicity, and they cannot require personal statements regarding diversity and inclusion. Additionally, institutions must include affirmations in their mission statements that emphasize open inquiry and viewpoint diversity.

The bill also outlines penalties for institutions that violate these provisions, including administrative fines and potential disciplinary actions against employees. It mandates that institutions submit annual compliance reports to the Department of Education and other legislative leaders. Furthermore, the bill prohibits institutions from requiring participation in DEI training as a condition for admission, employment, or graduation, establishing penalties for violations and a process for reporting such infractions. Overall, the legislation aims to limit the influence of diversity training in public higher education while reinforcing principles of intellectual freedom and institutional neutrality.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 1079 (Mar 24, 2025): P.L.30, No.14
Printer's No. 1079: P.L.30, No.14