Watchdog Group Calls for Probe into Idaho Universities’ Alleged Evasion of New Anti-DEI Law
BOISE, Idaho — A prominent conservative watchdog organization has called on Idaho’s attorney general to investigate four state universities accused of sidestepping a recently enacted law designed to restrict mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) courses. The Goldwater Institute alleges that these institutions have devised schemes to bypass the Freedom of Inquiry in Higher Education Act, which prohibits compulsory DEI coursework unrelated to students’ primary fields of study.
Passed in April 2025 and effective since July, the Freedom of Inquiry in Higher Education Act aims to protect students from being compelled to enroll in diversity programs that are not directly connected to their academic disciplines. While the law permits exemptions for programs primarily focused on racial, ethnic, or gender studies, the Goldwater Institute contends that universities are exploiting loopholes to maintain DEI initiatives under different guises.
“The whole goal of the law is to ensure academic freedom and prevent ideological indoctrination,” an attorney representing the Goldwater Institute explained. “Yet, these universities appear to be circumventing the law by rebranding or restructuring their programs to avoid compliance.”
The institute’s demand for a formal investigation was directed to Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador, urging his office to scrutinize the universities’ compliance with the statute. The attorney general’s office has not yet issued a public response.
Idaho’s legislative move to regulate DEI requirements in higher education reflects a broader national debate over the role of diversity initiatives on college campuses. Supporters argue that such laws protect students’ rights to choose their coursework freely, while critics warn they may undermine efforts to address systemic inequities.
According to the State of Idaho official website, the Freedom of Inquiry in Higher Education Act specifically prohibits institutions from mandating DEI courses unless they fall within narrowly defined exemptions. The law’s passage followed growing concerns among parents and policymakers about compulsory ideological education.
Meanwhile, the Goldwater Institute, a conservative public policy organization, has been active in challenging what it views as overreach in educational curricula nationwide. Their recent report highlights the alleged tactics used by Idaho’s universities to skirt the new law, including reclassifying DEI content within broader course offerings.
Experts note that enforcement of such laws often depends on vigilant oversight by state authorities. The National Association of Attorneys General provides resources for states to investigate and enforce compliance with education-related statutes.
As the controversy unfolds, students and faculty at the implicated universities have yet to comment publicly. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between state governments seeking to regulate educational content and institutions striving to maintain academic autonomy.
For now, all eyes are on Attorney General Labrador’s office to determine whether it will pursue an inquiry into the universities’ practices. The outcome could set a precedent for how similar laws are implemented and enforced across the country.
More information about Idaho’s educational policies can be found on the Idaho State Board of Education website, which oversees public higher education institutions in the state.
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