Anoka Times

Minnesota State Representative Harry Niska commented on social media about a recent legal development involving the Walz administration and religious freedom. In a series of posts dated August 23, 2025, Niska criticized actions by Minnesota's executive branch and Democratic lawmakers regarding the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options (PSEO) program and Christian colleges.

In his first post, Niska stated, "Huge win for religious freedom, and yet another constitutional violation by the Walz/Democrat trifecta." (August 23, 2025).

He continued by alleging that state officials attempted to limit educational opportunities based on religious affiliation: "The Walz administration targeted two Christian colleges and tried to exclude them from the PSEO program, limiting options for students in an effort to control the religious expression of the schools. It was blatantly unconstitutional." (August 23, 2025).

In a subsequent message, Niska asserted that opposition warnings were ignored during legislative deliberations: "Republicans tried to explain that the law would be struck down but Democrats voted in lockstep to violate the constitution." (August 23, 2025).

The PSEO program allows Minnesota high school students to earn college credit while still enrolled in high school. Recent legal challenges have focused on whether faith-based institutions can participate without restrictions based on their religious policies or beliefs. These issues have sparked debate about balancing nondiscrimination requirements with First Amendment protections for religious institutions.

Governor Tim Walz has previously defended legislation related to education access and nondiscrimination but has faced criticism from some lawmakers and advocacy groups over its impact on private religious colleges.