H.R. 3505: Free Speech On Campus Act

This bill requires public institutions of higher education (IHEs) that participate in federal student aid programs to provide students with information about their First Amendment rights.

Specifically, an IHE must provide new and transfer students attending orientation with

• a written statement (that must also be published on the IHE's website) that explains student rights under the First Amendment, affirms the commitment of the IHE to freedom of expression, and includes an assurance that students and invited speakers will not be treated in a manner that violates their freedom of expression; and
• educational programming (including online resources) that includes the IHE's policies for protecting freedom of expression and lessons for understanding the First Amendment.

Written by the Congressional Research Service, Library of Congress.