Bill > HB806

This bill provides comprehensive legal protections for student journalism in Pennsylvania, establishing clear guidelines for student journalists, school officials, and school-sponsored media programs. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, the bill requires school entities with media programs to adopt policies that protect student journalists' free speech rights while maintaining reasonable limitations. These limitations include prohibiting student expression that is libelous, obscene, an invasion of privacy, unlawful, or substantially disruptive. The bill empowers student editors to have full control over content selection and approval, preventing school officials from participating in pre-publication censorship. Student-media advisors are protected from disciplinary actions when supporting student journalists' legally protected expression. The legislation mandates that student journalists receive media law training and clarifies that school-sponsored media represents student expression, not official school statements. Importantly, the bill prohibits prior restraint of student expression and ensures student journalists have access to school media facilities, fostering an environment that encourages student free speech while maintaining appropriate educational standards and protections.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=806