STATEHOUSE (April 28, 2022) – A new law supported by State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) protects free speech at public colleges and universities throughout Indiana.
Behning said the new law, signed by the governor in mid-March and unanimously supported by legislators, prevents free speech zones from popping up on college campuses. These zones are established by administrators and confine free speech to designated areas where students are then allowed to speak, protest or advocate for a cause. He said these regulated and sectioned areas are often in remote locations, and infringe on the First Amendment right protecting speech in public areas.
"Hoosier students have the right to share their views," Behning said. "Institutions of higher learning must continue fostering an environment where differing opinions can be debated without the fear of censorship or retaliation."
Behning, who supported the law, said this legislation also prevents colleges from discriminating against and denying benefits to student groups on the basis of religion, political affiliation or ideology, and sets clear guidelines for Indiana colleges and universities to ensure free speech is permitted.
Behning said this law is an important step in providing clear guidance to higher education institutions in Indiana.
For more information, visit iga.in.gov.
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State Rep. Bob Behning (R-Indianapolis) represents House District 91,
which includes portions of Hendricks and Marion counties.
Click here to download a high-resolution photo.
