H.R.2634 - Free Speech On Campus Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2634, the "Free Speech On Campus Act," aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. It requires public institutions of higher education, as a condition of participating in Title IV programs, to provide new students with a written statement and educational programming on their First Amendment rights. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by Mr. Kiley of California and Mr. Owens and referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.2634 would mandate that public colleges and universities receiving federal funding under Title IV implement specific measures to inform students about their free speech rights. This includes providing a written statement during orientation and offering educational programming on the First Amendment. The bill also requires institutions to post the written statement on their website.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of First Amendment rights among college students.
- Promotion of a campus environment that values and protects free expression.
- Clearer understanding of institutional policies related to free speech.
- Encouragement of respectful dialogue and the expression of diverse viewpoints.
- Publicly available information on institutional commitment to freedom of expression.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden on public institutions of higher education.
- Possible conflicts over the interpretation and implementation of free speech policies.
- Risk of chilling effects on speech due to concerns about violating institutional policies.
- Limited impact if students do not actively engage with the provided materials and programming.
- Potential for legal challenges regarding the scope and application of the First Amendment on campus.
Constitutional Alignment
H.R.2634 aligns with the First Amendment of the US Constitution, which protects freedom of speech. By requiring public institutions to educate students about their First Amendment rights, the bill seeks to promote and uphold these rights on college campuses. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any other constitutional rights or principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).