Bill > HB1173

This bill introduces two key provisions for state educational institutions in Indiana. First, it prohibits universities from investigating, disciplining, or punishing students for speech related to political opinions, beliefs, or perceived biases, as long as such speech is protected under the First Amendment or the Indiana State Constitution. Universities are also barred from soliciting reports about such speech, though they can still investigate illegal activities, potential law violations, or speech not protected by constitutional free speech provisions. Second, the bill restricts how universities can consider race, color, or ethnicity in their decision-making processes. Educational institutions are prohibited from using an applicant's racial or ethnic information when making admission, scholarship, or financial aid decisions, and from revealing such data to admissions or financial aid officers before final decisions are made. The bill provides a cause of action for applicants or students who believe an institution has violated these provisions, allowing them to seek injunctive relief, compensatory and punitive damages, and up to $4,000 in liquidated damages. Importantly, individual employees acting under institutional direction are shielded from personal liability. The provisions are set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving institutions time to adjust their practices.

Education

https://iga.in.gov/legislative/2025/bills/house/1173/details