The proposed bill would update current statutes by introducing specific 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 establish a framework for reporting violations, requiring complaints to be filed with the State Board of Education for public schools and the Arizona Board of Regents or community college governing boards for higher education. The bill mandates that a trial de novo be held for such complaints, allowing courts to independently assess the facts, and it requires that students or their parents demonstrate by a preponderance of evidence that the alleged violations were characterized by antisemitism.

Additionally, the bill would revise existing policies and definitions within the Arizona Revised Statutes to enhance compliance and accountability regarding antisemitism in education. It would require educational institutions to notify employees of new policies, consider violations in employment decisions, and prohibit the use of taxpayer funds to satisfy judgments against institutions for violations. The legislation would also define key terms such as "antisemitism" and "hostile educational environment," and it would be designated as the "Antisemitism in Education Act." Overall, these updates aim to create a comprehensive legal framework to combat antisemitism in educational settings across Arizona.

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