Idaho Legislature Considers Changing LC State to University

Senate Bill 1234 moves to Education Committee after state board approval.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 9:31pm

The Idaho State Board of Education has approved a proposal to change the name of Lewis-Clark State College to Lewis-Clark State University. Senate Bill 1234, which would make the name change official, has now moved to the Education Committee in the Idaho Legislature.

Why it matters

The name change is intended to better reflect the full range of degree programs offered at the institution, which has expanded beyond a traditional college curriculum. While the change will cost an estimated $50,000, the college says the funds will come from the existing budget.

The details

The Idaho State Board of Education approved the name change from 'College' to 'University' in April of last year, agreeing that it would more accurately represent the institution's academic offerings. Senate Bill 1234, which would officially enact the name change, has now progressed to the Education Committee in the Idaho Legislature.

  • The Idaho State Board of Education approved the name change on April 16, 2025.
  • Senate Bill 1234 has moved to the Education Committee in the Idaho Legislature in February 2026.

The players

Lewis-Clark State College

A public college located in Lewiston, Idaho that offers a range of bachelor's and master's degree programs.

Idaho State Board of Education

The governing body responsible for overseeing public education in the state of Idaho, including approving name changes for state-run institutions.

Idaho Legislature

The legislative branch of the government of the state of Idaho, which is considering Senate Bill 1234 to officially change the name of Lewis-Clark State College to Lewis-Clark State University.

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What’s next

If Senate Bill 1234 passes the Education Committee, it will move to a vote in the full Idaho Legislature.

The takeaway

The proposed name change from 'College' to 'University' reflects the expanded academic offerings at Lewis-Clark State, and demonstrates the institution's evolution to meet the needs of students in Idaho.