Wyoming Critical race theory limit bill gets initial Senate OK

Originally Published on Wyoming Tribune Eagle

CHEYENNE – A bill addressing critical race theory in state education passed introduction in the Senate Thursday morning. A similar piece of legislation banning CRT instruction failed in the House.

Senate File 103 was approved by a 25-5 vote. It would create limitations on teaching critical race theory or any social philosophy that “inflames divisions on the basis of sex, race, ethnicity, religion, color, national origin or other criteria in ways contrary to the unity of the nation and the wellbeing of the state of Wyoming and its residents.”

Another portion of the bill would require all schools and colleges to give instruction on the essentials of the U.S. and Wyoming constitutions, including the study of and devotion to American institutions and ideals. Not only would the requirements be taught for at least five years of a student’s education, but they would not receive any degree at the secondary or collegiate level without passing an examination on the principles.

“The idea is to get the divisive teaching out of the school and let everybody understand their own rights and freedoms,” said bill sponsor Sen. Troy McKeown, R-Gillette. “And maybe we can fix some of the problems that are going on.”

Throughout the nation and the state, CRT has been a topic of discussion between school board trustees, government officials and stakeholders. Parents of students in the Capital City’s own schools have come forward at nearly every Laramie County School District 1 Board of Trustees meeting in the past year to share their concerns about how such topics might be taught.

Lawmakers said they are listening to these constituents, which is why four bills were filed for the 2022 budget session to touch on teaching standards and examination requirements…