DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa Representative Taylor Collins introduced 14 new bills aimed at shaping higher education in the state.
One key proposal seeks to limit tuition hikes at Iowa’s public universities to 3%. It also promises that students will pay the same tuition rate for four years.
Another bill targets diversity offices. It would ban these offices at community colleges and private schools receiving Iowa tuition grants, a rule already in place at the three public universities.
Collins also wants to create a school of intellectual freedom at the University of Iowa.
One bill specifies which classes can be offered for general education. It aims to exclude courses that twist historical facts or teach concepts like identity politics. It openly states that while such courses will be limited, academic freedom and open discussion are still important.
These proposals came right before a presentation from the Manhattan Institute, a conservative think tank. They argued that trust in higher education is declining, with rising costs and political topics influencing what’s taught in colleges.
Neetu Arnold, a policy analyst, mentioned that certain fields, like anthropology and gender studies, are often perceived as politically biased. She cited a course at the University of Iowa that focuses on racial issues and includes material on white privilege.
Democrats expressed skepticism about their claims. State Representative Jennifer Konfrst questioned the evidence supporting the idea that some majors are politically biased. Arnold assured her that she could provide articles on the topic.
Rep. Konfrst pressed for more detailed information on the claims made, emphasizing the need for concrete data.
After the meeting, Rep. Collins told Iowa’s News Now that he aims for colleges to align with their missions. He indicated that the Iowa Board of Regents would play a key role in this reform. One of his new bills charges the Regents with reviewing academic programs to ensure they meet the workforce needs of Iowa.
For a complete list of the higher education bills introduced by Rep. Collins, you can check here.
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Higher education,Iowa House,Tuition increases,Diversity equity inclusion,University of Iowa,Academic freedom,Political bias,Workforce needs
