Revise education laws related to diversity, equity, and inclusion

This bill prohibits institutions of higher education in Montana from considering race, color, ethnicity, or national origin when making decisions about admissions, hiring, scholarships, or financial aid. It requires universities to keep applicant demographic data confidential until final decisions are made and bans the use of aggregated demographic data in these processes. The legislation creates a private legal cause of action that allows individuals to sue universities for violations, with provisions for compensatory, punitive, and statutory damages, while also waiving the state's sovereign immunity. The law would take effect on October 1, 2026, applying to the Montana university system and eligible educational institutions.