SC House passes bill to limit diversity initiatives on college campuses [Video]

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCSC) – A bill passed in the South Carolina House of Representatives on Thursday targets efforts to promote diversity on college campuses.

Supporters of the legislation said they want to ensure merit guides higher education, but some students and staff have warned their proposal could have detrimental effects.

The bill targets efforts aimed at promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, also known as DEI, at South Carolina’s public colleges and universities. These programs have become a target in recent years in red states, including now in South Carolina.

“What we’re trying to stop is preferential treatment based on group identity,” Rep. Tim McGinnis, R-Horry, and the bill’s lead sponsor, said. “We’re trying to ensure the playing field stays level.”

Much of the discussion and criticism of DEI efforts nationwide focus on race, but proponents of these initiatives said they help a variety of people with unique needs on campuses, including, but not limited …