An Iowa Senate subcommittee has advanced a bill that would ban public funds from being used for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) offices or officers at state entities, including public universities and community colleges. Private colleges were initially included, but lawmakers indicated plans to remove that provision.
Supporters argue the bill promotes fairness and merit over what they view as divisive DEI practices. Opponents, including civil rights advocates, say the measure undermines efforts to support marginalized students and staff.
The proposal now heads to a full Senate committee, with amendments expected.
