While major conservative victories were few and far between this legislative session, Iowa lawmakers did garner a win in the Education Appropriations bill this week.
After an effort by Rep. Taylor Collins failed to gain momentum on its own, the same idea was added to the appropriations bill. The bill defines DEI and prohibits regent universities from maintaining a DEI office, compelling anyone to provide a DEI statement or give preferential treatment to anyone on the basis of DEI.
The regents are required to report on their compliance annually. Anyone is able to report violations of the law and the Iowa AG has enforcement powers.
At the close of the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, all unexpended moneys appropriated by the general assembly that would have been spent on DEI officers or DEI officers will be reallocated to the Iowa Workforce Grannt and Incentive Program Fund.
The Iowa House passed the effort 52-43. The Senate followed suit, 32-14.
You can read about this particular bill here. The DEI section is division nine of the bill.
