JFAC orders audit of university compliance with state DEI rules and approves transparency language for ICOM talks

The Joint Finance-Appropriations Committee voted to add two pieces of policy language tied to higher-education appropriations: a legislative audit on diversity, equity and inclusion spending and a transparency requirement for negotiations connected to the University of Phoenix negotiations (referred to in committee as “ICOM” negotiations).

Audit of DEI compliance Representative Price moved language requiring the Legislative Audits Division to audit Boise State University, Idaho State University, Lewis–Clark State College and the University of Idaho for compliance with Idaho code relating to diversity, equity and inclusion. The motion directed the audits to be completed and reported to JFAC by Dec. 1, 2025. Committee discussion noted previous audit work by the universities and disagreement in committee about the value and scope of the audits.

Senator Wintrow spoke against the broader policy framing and cautioned…