To rectify the country's long history of discrimination against minority groups, educational institutions throughout the U.S. have established departments focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Abbreviated as DEI, these concepts serve as frameworks on which to create comprehensive programs and goals for student and faculty experience.

In Iowa, however, the purpose and effectiveness of DEI has been called into question, resulting in legislation that seeks to reduce or dismantle such departments in its public universities. If you have questions or concerns about DEI policies in Iowa or other states, reach out to the Education Law Team at the Lento Law Firm offices by calling 888.535.3686 or filling out this contact form.

Iowa's Legislation

With legislation passed in November 2023, Iowa's Board of Regents aims to reduce the role of DEI in the state's public universities. Specifically, each institution must evaluate positions that have been created using DEI principles to determine their pertinence and importance. The institutions must then eliminate any jobs or departments that are not strictly necessary for supporting students and staff, qualifying for state accreditation, or maintaining compliance with education laws. In effect, the legislation constitutes a ban on DEI initiatives and organizations.

Republican representatives in the General Assembly hope to expand the ban. They inserted anti-DEI provisions into Senate File 2435—initially a typical budget bill—which passed in April 2024. If enacted, it would forbid any organized efforts that would support or advocate for racial and ethnic minorities, the LGBTQ+ community, and other groups that often face discrimination. In other words, Iowa's public institutions could no longer offer DEI jobs and departments to their students or faculty, nor could they facilitate any campus or classroom programs related to DEI.

What Faculty and Staff Need to Know

Faculty and staff at public universities in Iowa are concerned about how they'll follow the law without neglecting or alienating minority students and employees. Since DEI departments in Iowa helped with handling issues like discrimination complaints, special accommodations, social awareness, and others, supporting minority communities without violating the legislation could be challenging. Missteps may affect the offending institution's funding and ranking.

To ensure that each school's quality and services remain intact and uninterrupted, university staff and teachers should not have to navigate this new legislation alone. They should enjoy access to professional assistance with legal interpretation and execution. Consulting with the Lento Law Firm could make the difference between successfully complying with the law and facing disciplinary action from Iowa's governing bodies.

Do You Have Questions About Compliance?

The students and employees at Iowa's public universities deserve the best opportunities for education and a positive workplace. To learn how to help your university flourish while following Iowa's new DEI law, call 888.535.3686 or fill out a contact form so that you can schedule a consultation with the Lento Law Firm's Education Law Team.