Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds Mandates History Courses Selected by Civics Centers for Undergraduates
Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds has signed legislation requiring undergraduate students at Iowa's public universities to take comprehensive survey courses in American history and government. These courses will be selected by civics centers, which often have conservative leanings. The law, known as House File 2800, mandates that starting in fall 2028, new undergraduates at the University of Iowa, Iowa State University, and the University of Northern Iowa must complete these courses. The Center for Intellectual Freedom at the University of Iowa will be the sole provider of these courses at the flagship institution. The legislation was amended by State Rep. Taylor Collins, chair of the House higher education committee, and added to a budget bill before reaching Governor Reynolds's desk. The requirements do not apply to students who have already completed similar coursework or are pursuing degrees designed to be completed in three years or less.