Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

Wisconsin Senate Bill SB988

Introduced
2/1/24  
Refer
2/1/24  

Caption

Prohibiting University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges from using loyalty pledges and requiring them to make certain information publicly available.

Impact

If passed, the implications of SB988 would significantly alter the landscape of admissions and employment processes within the Wisconsin educational system. By mandating that loyalty pledges cannot be a basis for admissions or hiring decisions, it reinforces a commitment to non-discrimination based on political beliefs. The bill introduces a civil right for affected individuals to seek injunctive relief and damages in court, thereby enhancing accountability for educational institutions. Additionally, institutions would be required to publicly post training materials and guidelines related to nondiscrimination and inclusion, thereby increasing transparency and reducing potential unlawful practices.

Summary

Senate Bill 988 aims to prohibit institutions within the University of Wisconsin System and technical colleges from requiring loyalty pledges from students and faculty. Specifically, the bill states that these institutions cannot condition admission, financial aid, recognition or funding for student organizations, or faculty hiring and promotions on a person's allegiance to any political ideology, including diversity, equity, and inclusion. The bill is designed to protect individuals from having their educational opportunities or employment affected by their personal political beliefs.

Contention

The bill has sparked significant debate regarding academic freedom and institutional autonomy. Supporters argue it prevents coercion and guarantees that educational decisions are based on merit rather than personal beliefs. Critics, however, fear it may undermine initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and diversity within academia. There are concerns that abolishing loyalty pledges may hinder the institutions' ability to address issues related to equity and inclusion effectively, leading to a more polarized educational environment. The bill also stipulates disciplinary actions against employees that violate these provisions, which could further lead to tensions within academic workplaces.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

WI AB1065

Prohibiting University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges from using loyalty pledges and requiring them to make certain information publicly available.

WI SB575

Free speech and academic freedom at University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges, due process in disciplinary proceedings at University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges, Wisconsin grant funding allocation, and causes of action against the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and technical college district boards. (FE)

WI AB553

Free speech and academic freedom at University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges, due process in disciplinary proceedings at University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges, Wisconsin grant funding allocation, and causes of action against the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and technical college district boards. (FE)

WI SB367

Guaranteed admission to University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges and requiring high schools to prepare class rankings for certain pupils. (FE)

WI AB370

Guaranteed admission to University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges and requiring high schools to prepare class rankings for certain pupils. (FE)

WI SB12

Tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)

WI AB12

Tuition and fee remission or grants for certain veterans and their dependents enrolled in the University of Wisconsin System, a technical college, or a private nonprofit institution of higher education; and the University of Wisconsin System nonresident tuition exemption for certain veterans. (FE)

WI HB2105

Prohibiting postsecondary educational institutions from taking certain actions regarding admission applicants, applicants for employment and faculty concerning diversity, equity or inclusion, exceptions, providing for civil remedies and penalties, submitting a report to the legislature and posting information on the board of regents website.

WI HB2460

Substitute for HB 2460 by Committee on Higher Education Budget - Prohibiting postsecondary educational institutions from taking certain actions regarding admission applicants, applicants for employment and faculty concerning diversity, equity or inclusion, exceptions, providing for civil remedies and penalties, submitting a report to the legislature and posting information on the board of regents website.

WI SB377

Designating University of Wisconsin and technical college sports and athletic teams based on the sex of the participants.

Similar Bills

WI AB1065

Prohibiting University of Wisconsin System institutions and technical colleges from using loyalty pledges and requiring them to make certain information publicly available.

NJ A388

Establishes position of Ombudsman of Student Discipline to serve within Office of the Secretary of Higher Education.

NJ A4553

"Safer Students Act"; requires school districts, charter schools, nonpublic schools, contracted service providers, and institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employee for allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.

NJ S3485

"Safer Students Act"; requires school districts, charter schools, nonpublic schools, contracted service providers, and institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employee for allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.

NJ S2635

Requires institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employees who will have regular contact with students to ascertain allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.

NJ A2700

Requires institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employees who will have regular contact with students to ascertain allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.

NJ A5838

Requires institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employees who will have regular contact with students to ascertain allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.

NJ S4235

Requires institutions of higher education to review employment history of prospective employees who will have regular contact with students to ascertain allegations of child abuse or sexual misconduct.