Dear Faculty, Staff and Students:
The Utah Legislature recently passed two bills that significantly impact higher education: HB 261 Equal Opportunity Initiatives and HB 257 Sex-Based Designations for Privacy, Anti-Bullying, and Women’s Opportunities.
Salt Lake Community College is deeply committed to our students, faculty, and staff. We strive to be a place where all are welcomed and respected. While there are many unknowns about the ultimate effect these bills will have on some student and staff support programs, be assured that SLCC will maintain an environment where all can find success and feel a sense of belonging.
In the coming months, college leadership will work to gain clarity and determine the changes necessary for legislative compliance. We will also share this information as it becomes available.
We realize that during this time, some in our college community may feel unsettled and stressed. We encourage you to make use of available SLCC resources designed to support your well-being.
For Employees:
Employee Assistance Program, https://i.slcc.edu/culture/benefits/eap.aspx
24-Hour Crisis Line, 1-866-750-1327
This is toll-free access for you or a dependent in crisis. Counselors are available by phone, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
For Students:
SLCC Center for Health and Counseling
https://www.slcc.edu/chc/
https://www.facebook.com/SLCCCHC
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6q6igfpIqlW2oQKBPI299g
Warm Regards,
Dr. Deneece G. Huftalin
President, Salt Lake Community College
Frequently Asked Questions—HB 261
Where can I review HB 261?
https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0261.html
How will the new law impact SLCC’s work in diversity, equity, and inclusion?
While the full impact of the legislation is not entirely known, SLCC remains committed to an inclusive campus where everyone can succeed. This commitment will be prioritized as changes are made to comply with the law.
When does the legislation take effect?
July 1, 2024
How will HB 261 impact course content or research?
Classroom instruction and research will not be affected by the bill.
How will the Division of Institutional Equity, Inclusion, and Transformation change?
HB 261 directly addresses higher education offices with the title of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. SLCC’s leadership is currently having conversations now about how the division of IEIT will change.
How will student-facing offices be impacted by the legislation?
We will continue to evaluate the impact the law will have on certain SLCC divisions and programs and will keep those offices, as well as the entire college community, updated on changes.
How will HB 261 impact SLCC’s efforts to be designated as an HSI?
This bill does not interfere with the requirements necessary for an institution to establish or maintain eligibility for HSI or any other federal program.
How will the new law change SLCC’s hiring practices?
SLCC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate or tolerate discrimination based on a person’s identity. The college also does not use diversity statements in the hiring process. We will continue to cast a wide net to attract the best possible candidates and minimize bias when hiring employees.
Will the Native American tuition waiver program be cancelled?
No. Eligibility for SLCC’s Native American Tuition Waiver is based on membership in a federally recognized tribe. SLCC will continue to offer this tuition waiver to eligible students.
Will private scholarships, made available to students via the SLCC Foundation, be impacted?
Private scholarships will not be impacted by the legislation.
Will student government and student clubs be affected?
Student clubs will not be affected. However, there may be necessary adjustments to student government positions to comply with the bill. SLCCSA and Student Affairs are engaging in discussions.
Frequently Asked Questions – HB 257
Where can I review HB 257?
https://le.utah.gov/~2024/bills/static/HB0257.html
How does HB 257 impact Salt Lake Community College?
HB257 changes the state’s legal definitions of “female” and “male” to categorize Utahns by the reproductive organs they were born with. Individuals can only access a sex-designated “privacy space” in government funded facilities— including restrooms, locker rooms, and dressing rooms if they meet the legal definition of sex that corresponds with that space. Some transgender adults would be allowed to enter gender-specific spaces in limited circumstances if they have had both bottom surgery and amended their birth certificate.
What facility options exist on SLCC’s campuses for our staff and students?
SLCC has long provided access to unisex/single stall or gender-neutral restrooms at all our campuses and is already largely in compliance with HB 257. Students, employees and visitors can find a list of gender-neutral restrooms at www.slcc.edu/lgbtq/gender-neutral-restrooms.aspx. The college is currently reviewing all on-campus locker-rooms and is working to ensure private changing rooms are available where needed.
When does this legislation take effect?
January 30, 2024
Resources and updates can be found here (https://www.slcc.edu/ieit/index.aspx) and on our FAQ page (https://www.slcc.edu/ieit/hb261-faq.aspx)
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