PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- A bill that would protect students and employees at institutions of higher education from divisive concepts got final approval in the South Dakota Senate Monday.

Senator Jessica Castleberry of Rapid City was one of the prime sponsors.

Senator Jim Bolin of Canton says the change will enhance education at the states universities.

Senator V.J. Smith of Brookings pointed out the real time examples of free speech.

The bill was amended in committee to take out some references to Critical Race Theory. The final version was approved in the Senate on a vote of twenty-seven to eight.