Lawmakers significantly amend Noem’s Critical Race Theory Bill before passing it

Originally Published on KEVN Black Hills FOX

HB 1012, which was originally intended to be the Governor’s ban on “critical race theory,” was amended so that the words “critical race theory” no longer even appear in the bill. It and an intended ban on “political indoctrination” easily cleared the State House on Tuesday.

PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota lawmakers made significant amendments to Gov. Kristi Noem’s Critical Race Theory Bill before they passed it on Tuesday.

After amendments in the House Education committee and amendments on the House floor, HB 1012 no longer has the words “critical race theory” anywhere in it. It passed by a vote of 54 to 14.

HB 1012 now stipulates that students not be subjected to “divisive concepts,” but does not necessarily require that for classroom teaching, only that institutions “may not require their students or employees to attend or participate in any training or orientation that teaches, advocates, acts upon, or promotes divisive concepts.”

“This bill does not impact classroom curriculum,” said State Rep. Sue Peterson (R-Sioux Falls). “It is important to maintain academic freedom.”

HB 1337, another bill from Noem’s office intended to “to protect elementary and secondary students from political indoctrination,” also passed the House by a vote 50 to 18…