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To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit institutions of higher education from requiring ideological oaths or similar statements, and for other purposes.

3/5/2025, 5:03 AM

Summary of Bill HR 927

Bill 119 HR 927, also known as the "Higher Education Ideological Oath Prohibition Act," aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prevent institutions of higher education from mandating ideological oaths or similar statements from students. The bill seeks to protect students' freedom of thought and expression by prohibiting universities and colleges from requiring students to pledge allegiance to a specific ideology or belief system.

The bill is designed to ensure that students are able to engage in open and diverse discussions and debates without fear of retribution or discrimination based on their personal beliefs. By prohibiting institutions from imposing ideological oaths, the bill aims to promote a more inclusive and tolerant learning environment where students are free to explore different perspectives and ideas.

In addition to prohibiting ideological oaths, the bill also includes provisions for enforcement and penalties for institutions found to be in violation of the law. This ensures that universities and colleges are held accountable for upholding students' rights to intellectual freedom and diversity of thought. Overall, Bill 119 HR 927 seeks to safeguard students' rights to free thinking and expression in higher education settings, promoting a more inclusive and intellectually stimulating learning environment for all.

Congressional Summary of HR 927

This bill prohibits an institution of higher education (IHE) that participates in federal student aid programs from requiring a student enrolled at the IHE, an employee or contractor of the IHE, or an applicant for admission to or employment or contracting at the IHE to make certain ideological oaths or similar statements.

Specifically, the bill prohibits an IHE from compelling, requiring, inducing, or soliciting such an individual to (1) endorse an ideology that promotes the differential treatment of an individual or group of individuals based on race, color, or ethnicity; or (2) provide a statement indicating certain information about the individual, including the individual's views on efforts involving diversity, equity, and inclusion or other specified concepts.

Additionally, the bill prohibits an IHE from providing preferential consideration to a student, employee, or contractor based on the individual's unsolicited support for an ideology that promotes the differential treatment of an individual or group of individuals based on race, color, or ethnicity.

Current Status of Bill HR 927

Bill HR 927 is currently in the status of Bill Introduced since February 4, 2025. Bill HR 927 was introduced during Congress 119 and was introduced to the House on February 4, 2025.  Bill HR 927's most recent activity was Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce. as of February 4, 2025

Bipartisan Support of Bill HR 927

Total Number of Sponsors
2
Democrat Sponsors
0
Republican Sponsors
2
Unaffiliated Sponsors
0
Total Number of Cosponsors
0
Democrat Cosponsors
0
Republican Cosponsors
0
Unaffiliated Cosponsors
0

Policy Area and Potential Impact of Bill HR 927

Primary Policy Focus

Alternate Title(s) of Bill HR 927

To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit institutions of higher education from requiring ideological oaths or similar statements, and for other purposes.
To amend the Higher Education Act of 1965 to prohibit institutions of higher education from requiring ideological oaths or similar statements, and for other purposes.

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