Idaho proposes restricting college diversity initiatives [Video]

BOISE — A proposal to restrict diversity, equity and inclusion programs responds to a years-long “pendulum shift” on higher education politics, State Board of Education executive director Joshua Whitworth said Monday.

But while Whitworth insisted the policy will not limit access to student support programs, Senate Minority Leader Melissa Wintrow was skeptical. And over the past two days, she said she has received more than 50 emails from students with similar concerns.

“They are scared about the things you are denying them,” Wintrow, D-Boise, told Whitworth. “And maybe they will leave.”

A legislative DEI task force reconvened at the Statehouse Monday morning for its second meeting. While the eight-member committee has unveiled no proposed bills — and probably won’t before the 2025 legislative session begins in five weeks — the State Board in November unveiled its own proposal to rein in DEI programs. Monday’s meeting gave the legislative task force …