the legislation “will require public universities and colleges to survey students, faculty and staff about their beliefs and viewpoints,” not that those students, faculty and staff members will be required to respond to the surveys.

So why do it if it isn't meant to provide some political advantage? It is really none of the business of politicians and serves no purpose unless simply making such a survey available to corruption and propaganda is the object. It would also be much more likely to be submitted by those who's views are consistent with the prevailing majority, especially among authority figures, than by anyone holding minority views.