Florida House approves bill aimed at university diversity programs.

Florida Lawmakers Pass Bill to Prevent University Programs Focused on Diversity

In a move that has sparked controversy, Florida lawmakers have passed a bill aimed at preventing university programs focused on diversity. The bill, Senate Bill 266, would require Florida’s State Board of Education and State University System’s Board of Governors to appoint faculty committees to review general education core courses. If passed, the bill would allow the reviews to act on the “removal, alignment, realignment, or addition” of various courses.

What the Bill Entails

According to News Service of Florida, “General education core courses may not distort significant historical events or include a curriculum that teaches identity politics … or is based on theories that systemic racism, sexism, oppression, and privilege are inherent in the institutions of the United States and were created to maintain social, political, and economic inequities.”

The bill received pushback from Democratic members of the House. However, state GOP Rep. Alex Andrade said the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives this bill would affect have hurt both schools and students. “DEI’s intellectual fragility makes campuses less safe, less intelligent and less free for the students who should be learning to think for themselves,” Andrade said.

What Happens Next

The bill passed in the House by a vote of 81-34; it had previously passed the Senate, where it was introduced, with a vote of 27-12. The bill now makes its way to the desk of Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL), where it will await his signature. DeSantis, seen in a positive light by many in the Republican Party, is set to launch his 2024 presidential campaign in mid-May, according to four GOP operatives familiar with the matter.

Why Some Support the Bill

State GOP Rep. Alex Andrade said the diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives this bill would affect have hurt both schools and students. “DEI’s intellectual fragility makes campuses less safe, less intelligent and less free for the students who should be learning to think for themselves,” Andrade said.

Why Some Oppose the Bill

Democratic members of the House have pushed back against the bill, arguing that it limits academic freedom and stifles important conversations about diversity and inclusion.

Final Thoughts

The passing of this bill has sparked a heated debate about the role of diversity and inclusion in higher education. While some argue that these initiatives are necessary to create a more equitable and just society, others believe that they are divisive and harmful to academic freedom. Only time will tell what impact this bill will have on Florida’s universities and their students.

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