Injunction Granted to Minnesota Colleges in PSEO Case

(KNSI) – The Minnesota Attorney General’s Office announced Wednesday that it would not enforce a provision of this year’s omnibus higher education bill after an injunction from a federal court.

United States District Judge Nancy Brasel ordered a clause that changes the definition of an eligible institution for the Post Secondary Enrollment Options program to be temporarily suspended until the case has been decided and all appeals have been made.

The clause bars colleges in the PSEO program from requiring a statement of faith. A parents group, Crown College, and the University of Northwestern – St. Paul are suing to declare it unconstitutional.

State Representative Harry Niska of Ramsey says, “It’s good to see the Minnesota AG’s office has stepped in to pause this egregious DFL overreach and I remain confident justice will prevail.” He adds, “House Republicans explained to Democrats, in clear terms, why their bill targeting certain colleges based on their religious beliefs was unconstitutional. We tried to help the DFL trifecta with their homework, but they wouldn’t listen.”

While the injunction is in place, the clause from the 2019 law will be considered in full effect.

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