Bill > SB1741

This bill, known as the "Charlie Kirk Act," mandates that public higher education institutions in Tennessee adopt and prominently display statements on freedom of expression and the institution's role in political and social action, largely mirroring policies from the University of Chicago, to ensure open discussion of ideas and prevent institutions from taking collective stances on public issues. It also prohibits institutions from refusing or canceling invitations for speakers based on their viewpoints or due to threatened protests, and from restricting student organizations' choices of invited speakers, with violations potentially leading to court orders (writs of mandamus or injunctions) against the institutions and civil liability for individuals. Furthermore, the bill protects faculty members from retaliation or discrimination based on their scholarly work or speech, and prohibits discrimination or retaliation against individuals or student groups based on religious beliefs or opposition to abortion, homosexuality, or transgender behavior, with similar enforcement mechanisms. The act also defines specific actions that constitute substantial obstruction of invited speakers and establishes disciplinary sanctions for students and faculty who violate campus free speech policies, including probation, suspension, and termination, and allows for civil lawsuits by affected parties, waiving certain immunities and defenses for defendants.

Education

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1741&ga=114