Bill > HB0159

This bill, titled "Safeguarding personal expression at K-12 schools," aims to protect students' rights to express religious, political, or ideological viewpoints in public schools, ensuring they are not discriminated against or penalized for such expression as long as it's done in the same manner and to the same extent as other students' speech. It specifically allows students to express these viewpoints in class discussions, assignments, artwork, presentations, and through clothing, accessories, and jewelry, and to organize clubs or organizations with similar viewpoints, provided these activities do not disrupt school operations or infringe on the rights of others. The bill also establishes that schools waive their immunity under the Eleventh Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and can be sued in federal court for violating these student speech protections, with individuals or groups harmed by violations having a cause of action for damages, attorney fees, and other relief, including a minimum of $5,000 in damages. Additionally, it amends the Wyoming Governmental Claims Act to include this new liability for schools regarding student expression.

Education

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/HB0159