The proposed bill would update current statutes by establishing clear prohibitions against public schools and higher education institutions from teaching or promoting antisemitism, as well as engaging in conduct that creates a hostile educational environment. It would introduce new requirements for reporting violations, mandating that complaints be filed with the State Board of Education (SBE) for public schools and the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR) or community college governing boards for higher education. The bill would also implement a trial de novo standard for civil actions, allowing courts to reassess facts without deference to prior determinations, and would require students or parents to prove by a preponderance of evidence that a violation occurred.

Additionally, the bill would enforce compliance measures for educational institutions, including revising policies to prohibit antisemitism, notifying employees of these changes, and considering confirmed violations negatively in employment decisions. It would allow for legal remedies, including the ability to seek injunctions and damages, while prohibiting the use of taxpayer funds to satisfy judgments against institutions for violations. The legislation aims to create a structured framework for addressing antisemitism in educational settings, ensuring that such conduct is explicitly prohibited and that there are clear procedures for reporting and addressing violations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 15-120.05
House Engrossed Version: 15-120.05
Senate Engrossed Version: 15-120.05