The proposed bill introduces the "Selecting Neutral Accreditors Act" to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new article that outlines legislative findings, definitions, and procedures for selecting accrediting agencies. The bill asserts that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives at post-secondary institutions lack academic rigor and have led to discrimination in hiring and tenure decisions. It highlights concerns regarding the influence of DEI mandates on accreditation processes, noting that many accrediting agencies have adopted DEI standards, which the bill argues should not be part of the accreditation process.

Under the new provisions, each institution of higher education in West Virginia must review its accrediting agencies by July 1, 2026, to determine if they have used any DEI practices in the past five years. If so, institutions are required to either switch to an accrediting agency that has not adopted such practices or report to the legislature if no such agency exists. The bill also establishes enforcement mechanisms, including presumption of DEI practice adoption if an accrediting agency fails to respond to inquiries, and grants the Attorney General investigative powers to ensure compliance with the new requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18B-23-1, 18B-23-2, 18B-23-3