The Texas House recently passed SB 37—a bill that would grant governor-appointed university regents unprecedented oversight of the curriculum and administration of public universities. The bill seeks to combat leftist indoctrination and ensure that educational standards align with “workforce demands.”

Board Member of the National Association of Scholars, Adam Kissel, writes: 

SB 37 will make governing boards responsible for ensuring that the huge amounts of money put into Texas universities are used to educate students to serve the interests of Texas in having well-formed, productive citizens. Biased, frivolous, self-indulgent, and narrow courses will no longer have a place in the general education at public universities in Texas.

In the interest of eliminating “diversity, equity, and inclusion” (DEI) requirements in higher education, this bill represents a significant step forward. However, it would also create a precedent that places university curricula at the discretion of the state’s dominant political party.

[RELATED: Texas Senate Bill 37 Empowers Boards to Reform Higher Education, End Indoctrination]

Texas is a Republican stronghold; Governor Greg Abbott is a Republican, and both chambers of the legislature have a Republican majority. However, the share of voters supporting Democratic gubernatorial candidates has increased over the last three elections. 

For example, in 2014, 38.9 percent of the population voted for the Democratic candidate, but that number increased to 42.5 percent in 2018. It’s unlikely, but if this trend keeps up, legislation like this could play into the hands of a future leftist majority. 

On the off chance that a leftist is elected governor, this bill could facilitate the reintroduction or expansion of DEI initiatives, prioritize an identity-based curriculum, and penalize professors who refuse to support a left-wing orthodoxy.

Allowing political appointees to directly shape curriculum further intensifies the already polarized environment of higher education. While the system has its flaws, conservatives should address them through enduring, principled legislation rather than creating opportunities for future misuse. Structural reform is essential, but it must prioritize educational integrity, regardless of who wields political power.

According to the latest updates, Governor Greg Abbott has not yet signed SB 37 into law. The bill was sent to his desk on June 2, 2025. If signed, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Image: “Austin – Texas Capitol: Senate Chamber” by Wally Gobetz on Flickr