Establishes the "Do No Harm Act" relating to diversity-equity-inclusion requirements
If enacted, SB 410 will have considerable implications for the operational frameworks of colleges and universities in Missouri. Institutions found in violation of the bill will lose access to state funding and will have to repay state benefits received during the period of non-compliance. This change is particularly directed at health care-related academic programs, which are mandated to maintain specific admission standards without the influence of DEI ideologies. The bill essentially shifts the regulatory landscape concerning how higher education institutions approach student admission criteria, curriculum design, and faculty hiring practices.
Senate Bill 410, known as the "Do No Harm Act," seeks to amend Missouri law by establishing specific obligations for institutions of higher education regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The bill aims to prohibit these institutions from adopting or imposing DEI ideologies in admissions, academic requirements, or employment practices. This includes barring institutions from requiring students or employees to affirm any DEI-related statements or from utilizing any DEI training programs in academic or professional certification processes. The overarching goal of the bill is to maintain traditional academic standards while ensuring that state funding is not allocated to institutions violating these provisions.
The sentiment surrounding SB 410 is highly polarized. Proponents, primarily from conservative factions, argue that the bill is vital for preserving academic integrity and preventing the imposition of ideological biases in educational environments. They believe it will promote merit-based criteria in education and protect students' rights. Conversely, opponents, including various advocacy groups and some lawmakers, view the bill as an attempt to undermine critical discussions surrounding race and equality in educational settings. They argue this could stifle efforts to create a more inclusive environment and may negatively impact minority students and faculty.
Debates on SB 410 often revolve around the balance between free expression of ideas in educational settings and the necessary safeguards against discrimination. Critics raise concerns that strict prohibitions on DEI initiatives could hinder important educational discourse about systemic inequities and limit the ability of institutions to foster a diverse and inclusive academic community. The potential economic implications of withdrawing state support from institutions that do not align with the bill’s requirements also raise significant concerns about the future educational funding landscape, which may affect the quality and access to higher education across Missouri.