Ending Political Tests and Protecting Free Speech in Higher Education
This act aims to protect free speech and association on university campuses by prohibiting accrediting agencies from imposing political viewpoints on institutions. It also establishes rules for student organization funding and event fees to ensure equal treatment. Students and faculty gain the right to sue institutions for violations of these rules.
Key points
Colleges cannot require students or employees to declare political viewpoints, including those related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).
Accrediting agencies cannot force institutions to adopt specific political views or violate constitutional rights as a condition of accreditation.
Public institutions must disclose their policies on free speech, association, and religion, and inform students of their right to sue the institution for violations.
Protection is provided for student organizations, including religious and single-sex groups, against discrimination in access to resources and recognition.
Clear rules are introduced for security fees for campus events, which cannot be based on the content of expression or viewpoints.
Students and organizations can sue public institutions in federal court for violations of these provisions, with the possibility of obtaining damages and legal costs.
2024-09-19
For
213
Against
201
Abstain
0
Full voting results
open_in_new
Expired
Additional Information
Print number: 118_HR_3724
Sponsor: Rep. Owens, Burgess [R-UT-4]
Process start date: 2023-05-25
Voting date: 2024-09-19
Meeting no: 2
Voting no: 433