Bill > HB1476

This bill, known as the "Charlie Kirk Act," mandates that public higher education institutions in Tennessee adopt and prominently display policies on freedom of expression and the institution's role in political and social action, mirroring specific language from the University of Chicago's policies. It prohibits institutions from refusing to invite speakers based on their viewpoints or canceling invitations due to threatened protests, and also prevents them from prohibiting student organizations from inviting speakers. Furthermore, the bill protects faculty members from retaliation or discrimination based on their scholarly work or speech protected by the First Amendment, and prohibits discrimination or retaliation against individuals based on their religious beliefs or opposition to abortion, homosexuality, or transgender behavior, including protections for student groups and employers regarding these beliefs. Violations by institutions can lead to court orders (writs of mandamus or injunctions), and violations by individuals can result in civil liability, with specific disciplinary sanctions outlined for students and faculty who violate campus free speech policies, including probation, suspension, or expulsion for students and suspension or termination for faculty. The bill also clarifies what constitutes "substantially obstructing or interfering" with invited speakers and establishes that individuals can bring lawsuits to enforce these provisions, waiving certain immunities and defenses for institutions and their employees.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1476&ga=114