Creates provisions relating to free speech policies in higher education and establishes the College Student Free Speech and Association Act
Impact
The implications of SB1170 are significant for state education policies. It compels higher education institutions to conduct annual reviews of their policies to ensure they comply with free speech rights and submit declarations to the state's commissioner of higher education. Additionally, private colleges are also subjected to the same transparency requirements regarding their commitment to protecting student speech rights. By potentially increasing scrutiny on these institutions, SB1170 could foster an environment more conducive to open discourse among students but may also create challenges in balancing free speech with maintaining campus safety and order.
Summary
Senate Bill 1170, known as the 'College Student Free Speech and Association Act', is aimed at amending chapter 173 of the Revised Statutes of Missouri to establish provisions regarding free speech policies at higher education institutions. This legislation mandates that any institution of higher education receiving state funds must guarantee that students are not penalized or discriminated against for their participation in protected associations. The bill articulates that students should be able to engage in various programs and activities without fear of official sanctions based on their associative rights as afforded by the First and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution.
Contention
Notably, the bill includes provisions that allow institutions to impose sanctions on students if their actions disrupt educational activities significantly, such as during lectures or performances. This creates a point of contention as advocates for free speech argue that even minor disruptions should not warrant penalties, while institutions emphasize the need to protect the right to education and safety on campus. The requirement for annual disclosures might also strain the resources of smaller institutions, raising concerns about the practical implications of these new mandates.
Ensures free speech on all college and university campuses within the state; creates a cause of action for those who have their freedom of speech infringed upon by a college or university.
Civil rights: speech and assembly; student free press act for public high schools and public community colleges and universities; create. Creates new act.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain propriety institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Requires undergraduate students to file degree plan and requires institutions of higher education and certain proprietary institutions to develop pathway systems to graduation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Establishes process for merger or consolidation of public institution of higher education with other institutions of higher education or certain proprietary institutions; requires executive and legislative approval of merger or consolidation.
Relating to the issuance of a diploma to a student graduating from a public institution of higher education that has undergone a merger, acquisition, or name change.