State Lawmakers Eye Big Changes for Colleges in 2026
USAMon Jan 05 2026
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State lawmakers are back at work, and colleges might be in for some big changes. Here are six key issues they will likely tackle this year.
First up, diversity policies are under fire. More states might ban diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at public universities. These bans could affect hiring, admissions, and student services. Missouri has already passed a law that cuts funding for colleges using state money for DEI programs. Other states, like South Carolina, might follow suit.
Next, community colleges could get more power. Iowa is considering letting community colleges offer four-year degrees in fields like healthcare and education. This would help students in areas without nearby universities. If passed, Iowa would join about two dozen other states with similar laws.
Tenure for professors might also change. Some lawmakers want to create a new type of tenure for faculty teaching certain subjects, like American history and Western civilization. This could mean more teaching and less research for other professors. Critics worry this could limit academic freedom.
Funding for colleges could shift too. Alabama is looking at a new way to fund schools based on outcomes, like how many low-income or special education students they enroll. Oklahoma might give lawmakers the power to freeze funding for up to two years if they deem it necessary. This could lead to political interference.
Accreditation, the process that ensures colleges meet quality standards, is another hot topic. Some states, like Florida, have already changed how their colleges are accredited. More states might follow, especially after former President Trump criticized the current system.
Lastly, AI regulations are on the table. Many states have already passed laws about artificial intelligence. More might come in 2026 as lawmakers try to keep up with this fast-changing technology.
These changes could have big impacts on colleges and students. It will be interesting to see what happens next.
