Iowa lawmakers are advancing legislation that critics say threatens DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) initiatives in the state’s public universities.
House Study Bill 52, backed by former Gov. Terry Branstad, proposes the creation of a “school of intellectual freedom” at the University of Iowa while further restricting DEI programs. “The future of our country is dependent on citizens who are well-informed and cherish and celebrate the American heritage,” Branstad told the Des Moines Register.
Detractors, however, argue that the legislation is part of a broader attack on diversity efforts in education.
Lawmakers have introduced numerous bills aimed at reshaping Iowa’s higher education landscape. These proposals include eliminating degree programs labeled as politically driven, capping tuition increases, and prioritizing workforce development over academic exploration. Rep. Taylor Collins, chair of the House Higher Education Committee, insists that these bills address workforce shortages, while critics see them as ideological interference.
Neetu Arnold of the conservative Manhattan Institute recently called for greater legislative control over university programming in Iowa and throughout the nation, arguing that fields like gender studies and social work have “gotten into the weeds of politics.”
The proposed legislation also mandates a review of degree programs to determine their economic “return on investment,” a measure some fear will sideline certain fields of study that are considered less lucrative. Opponents warn that these efforts undermine academic freedom, limit students’ exposure to diverse perspectives, and favor workforce training over fostering critical thinking.
As Iowa follows the lead of states like Florida and Texas in restricting DEI and reshaping curriculum, educators and students are pushing back, warning that these changes could erode academic integrity and limit opportunities for underrepresented groups.
