Noem Signals Change Ahead for ‘Intellectual Diversity’ Bill

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) — South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem says officials will work on changes to a Republican-backed bill seeking to promote "intellectual diversity" on college campuses.

The GOP governor says she met Friday with Republican Rep. Sue Peterson, the sponsor, to discuss the proposal.

The wide-ranging bill would mandate requirements for students, including U.S. history and government courses and scoring at least 85 percent on the U.S. citizenship test. Noem says she's worried the measure could increase costs for students.

The bill would also designate outdoor university areas as public forums, prohibit officials from discriminating against student organizations based on their expression and require reporting to the governor, regents and legislators.

Noem says she believes the discussion has merit. She says the state should strive for intellectual diversity on its campuses.

The Board of Regents opposes the bill.

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