Iowa Bill Proposes Studying VEISHEA Reinstatement

House Study Bill 545 would require the Board of Regents to examine reviving the long-running Iowa State University celebration.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 12:47am

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A new bill in the Iowa legislature, House Study Bill 545, would require the state's Board of Regents to study the potential benefits and practicality of reinstating VEISHEA, the long-running student celebration at Iowa State University. The bill passed out of subcommittee on Thursday and, if enacted, would mandate the Board present its findings to state education committees before the end of the year.

Why it matters

VEISHEA was a beloved annual tradition at Iowa State for over 90 years before it was permanently canceled in 2014 following a riot that resulted in injuries. The proposed study could pave the way for the event's return, which would be welcomed by many current and former students, but would also raise questions about public safety and the university's ability to manage large-scale celebrations.

The details

House Study Bill 545 would direct the Iowa Board of Regents to examine the feasibility of reinstating VEISHEA, which was a multi-day celebration featuring parades, open houses, and other festivities. VEISHEA was canceled in 2014 after a riot broke out, leading to injuries and property damage. The bill would require the Board to present its findings to state education committee chairs before the end of November.

  • House Study Bill 545 passed out of subcommittee on Thursday, January 30, 2026.
  • If enacted, the Board of Regents would have to present its VEISHEA study findings to state education committee chairs before November 26, 2026.

The players

Iowa State University

The public research university where the VEISHEA celebration was held for over 90 years before being canceled in 2014.

Iowa Board of Regents

The governing body that oversees Iowa's public universities, including Iowa State, and would be tasked with studying the potential reinstatement of VEISHEA under House Study Bill 545.

Steven Leath

The former president of Iowa State University who established a task force and hosted public forums before ultimately deciding to permanently cancel VEISHEA in 2014.

Hillary Kletscher

The Iowa State University student body president who met with President Leath and his cabinet following the 2014 VEISHEA riot that led to the event's suspension.

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What’s next

If House Study Bill 545 is enacted, the Iowa Board of Regents will have until November 26, 2026 to present its findings on the potential reinstatement of VEISHEA to state education committee chairs.

The takeaway

The proposed study of reviving VEISHEA at Iowa State University highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between preserving cherished campus traditions and ensuring public safety, especially after the 2014 riot that led to the event's cancellation. The outcome of this legislative effort could have significant implications for the university and its students for years to come.