Hunter
03/18/26
A bill that proposed extending the state’s restrictions on diversity, equity and inclusion programs from public colleges and universities to private colleges that participate in the Iowa Tuition Grant Program has been tabled.
The Gazette reports a three-member Senate Education Subcommittee declined to advance House File 2488.
The panel, consisting of two Republicans and one Democrat, were concerned the bill would undermine religious freedom and effectively represent interference in private institutions.
Republican panel member Greg Taylor said using the Iowa Tuition Grant as leverage against private colleges amounts to the state micromanaging independent institutions.
This Friday is the second “funnel deadline” for proposed legislation. The process requires policy bills in the House or Senate to advance through committee in the opposite chamber to remain eligible for passage.