H.B. 1006 and H.B. 1607: The Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature's Attack on Academic Freedom in Texas

By Tabitha S. M. Morton

Abstract:

The Eighty-Eighth Texas Legislature’s House of Representatives demonstrated how politicized higher education has become by introducing two bills, H.B. 1006 and H.B. 1607. Both threaten academic freedom and the ability of public colleges and universities to create diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. While the bills did not pass, examining their context remains essential because conservatives may introduce similar bills in future sessions if legislation from the eighty-eighth session fails to achieve their goals. This article discusses the bills’ potential impact on higher education in Texas and their effects on other elements of Texas society.

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