Bill would stop universities from imposing DEI pledges on students, staff

A leading conservative group expressed hope about cracking down on diversity, equity, and inclusion programs at the state level as a federal bill to stop funding to universities that require diversity pledges stalls in the House.

U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw, a Texas Republican, introduced the legislation in December to remove federal funding from universities that require students or applicants write DEI statements.

Crenshaw said DEI bureaucracy is “directly responsible” for a “toxic campus culture,” and his bill will protect freedom of thought on campuses.

Specifically, his bill would amend the Higher Education Act to block federal funds for colleges and universities that require DEI statements as a condition for employment or enrollment.