Purpose of the Bill

The Intellectual Freedom Protection Act is designed to protect the rights of individuals at public postsecondary institutions in Minnesota by preventing these institutions from requiring or considering political pledges related to ideology, diversity, equity, inclusion, or patriotism during admissions, employment, or promotion processes.

Main Provisions

• Prohibition of Political Pledges: Public colleges and universities cannot ask students or faculty to pledge allegiance to, express personal support for, or oppose any political ideology or movement, including diversity, equity, inclusion, or patriotism.
• Admissions and Employment Decisions: Institutions cannot make decisions about admissions, benefits, hiring, reappointment, or promotion based on any pledges or statements reflecting certain ideological viewpoints.
• Compliance with Laws: Institutions can require compliance with federal and state laws, including anti-discrimination laws, and ensure academic freedom isn't compromised.
• Transparency: Institutions must publicly post all training materials and policies relating to nondiscrimination, diversity, equity, inclusion, and other related topics on their websites.
• Legal Redress: Individuals whose rights are violated under this section can sue the institution in court for relief, damages, and attorney fees. The Minnesota Attorney General can also take legal action against institutions for policy violations.

Significant Changes

• Private Right of Action: Individuals now have the right to initiate legal proceedings if their rights under this act are violated.
• Attorney General Enforcement: Provides the Attorney General the power to file suits against institutions violating the act and imposes a civil penalty of $100,000 per violation.

Relevant Terms

• Intellectual Freedom Protection Act
• Public Postsecondary Institution
• Political Ideology
• Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
• Academic Freedom
• Antidiscrimination Laws
• Attorney General