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Idaho's DEI Course Ban Sparks University Exemption Debate

1/26/2026

Summary

Story summary

Idaho's Freedom of Inquiry in Higher Education Act takes effect July 2026, banning DEI courses not tied to students' fields.
The Goldwater Institute says four universities seek exemptions for programs not about racial, ethnic, or gender studies.
Parker Jackson, the Institute's attorney, argues the Idaho Board of Education misinterpreted the law, permitting broader exemptions.
The universities directed inquiries to the Board, which will cooperate with the attorney general's investigation.

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Story summary

Idaho's Freedom of Inquiry in Higher Education Act takes effect July 2026, banning DEI courses not tied to students' fields.
The Goldwater Institute says four universities seek exemptions for programs not about racial, ethnic, or gender studies.
Parker Jackson, the Institute's attorney, argues the Idaho Board of Education misinterpreted the law, permitting broader exemptions.
The universities directed inquiries to the Board, which will cooperate with the attorney general's investigation.