S.982 - No Tax Dollars for College Encampments Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
S.982, the "No Tax Dollars for College Encampments Act of 2025," aims to amend the Higher Education Act of 1965. It requires institutions of higher education to disclose campus policies related to responding to civil disturbances. The bill mandates that institutions report how they coordinate with law enforcement during such incidents to maintain public safety and prevent disruption of learning.
Expected Effects
The bill's likely effect is increased transparency regarding campus security policies related to civil disturbances. Colleges and universities would be required to disclose their protocols for handling protests and unrest. Accrediting agencies would also monitor institutions' compliance with these disclosure requirements.
Potential Benefits
- Increased transparency in campus policies regarding civil disturbances.
- Potential for improved coordination between institutions and law enforcement.
- May help maintain public safety during campus protests.
- Could prevent disruption of learning environments.
- Ensures accrediting agencies monitor compliance.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for chilling effect on free speech and assembly on college campuses.
- Increased administrative burden on institutions of higher education.
- Possible overreach by the federal government into campus affairs.
- Risk of biased enforcement based on the nature of the protest.
- May lead to increased tensions between students, faculty, and law enforcement.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. While it doesn't directly violate any specific constitutional provision, it could potentially infringe upon First Amendment rights to freedom of speech and assembly if implemented too restrictively. The First Amendment protects the right of the people to peaceably assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. The balance between maintaining order and protecting these rights is critical.
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).