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Higher Education Accreditation: Free Inquiry and Non-Discrimination

This act introduces new rules for agencies accrediting higher education institutions, focusing on protecting free speech and prohibiting requirements related to the racial, gender, or ethnic composition of students and staff. This aims to ensure that institutions can freely shape their policies, and citizens have access to education without discrimination based on these criteria.
Key points
Accrediting agencies cannot impose requirements regarding the race, color, sex, or national origin composition of students, faculty, or staff.
Higher education institutions must ensure a right of free inquiry, adhering to the First Amendment (for public institutions) or their own policies (for private institutions).
Institutions facing accreditation denial due to an agency's violation of these new prohibitions can pursue civil action.
Religious institutions are exempt from the free inquiry requirements if their mission is closely tied to their faith.
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Introduced
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Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_5121
Sponsor: Rep. Stefanik, Elise M. [R-NY-21]
Process start date: 2025-09-03
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Fairness in Higher Education Accreditation Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 119_HR_5121.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2025-09-03.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Accrediting agencies cannot impose requirements regarding the race, color, sex, or national origin composition of students, faculty, or staff.
  • Higher education institutions must ensure a right of free inquiry, adhering to the First Amendment (for public institutions) or their own policies (for private institutions).
  • Institutions facing accreditation denial due to an agency's violation of these new prohibitions can pursue civil action.
  • Religious institutions are exempt from the free inquiry requirements if their mission is closely tied to their faith.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Introduced.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Stefanik, Elise M. [R-NY-21].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-23.

CATEGORIES

Education Courts and Law