This bill amends existing education laws in Iowa to enhance the protected speech and expression rights of students in school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools. It mandates that schools cannot discriminate against or penalize students for engaging in religious, political, or ideological speech, allowing them to express their viewpoints in class discussions, assignments, and through organized gatherings or clubs. Additionally, students are permitted to wear clothing that displays religious, political, or ideological messages. The bill also requires schools to adopt policies ensuring compliance with federal religious expression standards and to provide professional development training for staff on these topics.

Furthermore, the bill establishes a framework for enforcement, allowing students or student-organized clubs to bring civil actions against schools for violations of these provisions. Courts are required to impose civil penalties of at least $5,000 on schools that fail to comply, with penalties payable to the prevailing student or club. The bill includes a waiver of sovereign immunity for schools, allowing them to be sued in federal court for violations. However, it also clarifies that schools can still restrict expressions that are not protected under the First Amendment or that disrupt school operations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 256.9, 279.89