Bill > HB0390

This bill protects religious, political, and ideological student organizations on higher education campuses by prohibiting institutions from discriminating against these groups based on their beliefs or leadership requirements. The bill defines key terms such as "benefit" (which includes recognition, facility use, and funding), "expressive activity" (peaceful assembly, distributing literature, carrying signs, and activities protected by the First Amendment), and "student organization" (a student group seeking or having official recognition). Specifically, institutions cannot deny benefits or privileges to student organizations because of their religious, political, or ideological nature, nor can they discriminate based on the organization's expressive activities or leadership requirements that align with the group's mission and beliefs. If an institution violates these provisions, the attorney general or an affected individual can bring a lawsuit seeking injunctions, damages (at least $500 for an initial violation), court costs, and attorney fees. The bill also requires institutions to publish free expression policies, include these policies in student handbooks and orientation programs, and develop training to ensure administrators and faculty understand and apply these policies in a viewpoint-neutral manner. The bill is set to take effect on May 7, 2025.

Education

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/HB0390.html