East Idaho Times

U.S. Senator Jim Risch, along with Senators Mike Crapo, Tim Sheehy, and Cynthia Lummis, introduced the Protect Equality and Civics Education (PEACE) Act. The legislation aims to prevent the use of taxpayer funds for promoting Critical Race Theory in U.S. history and civics education programs.

The PEACE Act incorporates the Trump administration's definition of "divisive concepts" from the 2020 Executive Order on Combating Race and Sex Stereotyping. This move is intended to align educational standards with America's founding principles while rejecting what they describe as extreme ideology.

Senator Risch stated, "For too long, the radical left has tried to rewrite American history and indoctrinate future generations with their woke agenda." He emphasized that his bill ensures taxpayer money will not support Critical Race Theory or a divisive political agenda.

Senator Crapo added, "Teaching children they are inherently ‘bad’ or ‘good’ based on conditions they cannot control is destructive and unproductive." He advocates for schools to return to providing quality education that prepares future leaders.

Senator Sheehy criticized the Biden Administration's use of taxpayer money over the past four years, stating it was used to enforce a "radical, woke agenda" on students. He expressed appreciation for efforts to end this practice so students can focus on preparing for success after graduation.

Senator Lummis also voiced concerns about the Biden administration's focus over recent years. She said she is proud to join her colleagues in opposing what she calls a radical agenda in public schools while prioritizing quality education.