The bill amends Oklahoma's higher education laws to enhance the protection of expressive activities on college campuses. It designates outdoor areas of public institutions as public forums, thereby prohibiting the establishment of free speech zones. While institutions may charge security fees for expressive activities that require permits, these fees cannot be influenced by the content of the expression or the expected reactions. The bill also mandates that institutions publish criteria for assessing these fees and provide education to students and faculty on free expression policies. Additionally, it requires the Oklahoma Free Speech Committee to develop training on First Amendment rights for college deans and first-year students, covering protected expressive activities and institutional policies.

Moreover, the bill emphasizes the importance of diverse viewpoints in the educational experience, encouraging students to engage with opposing perspectives. It outlines the rights of students and student organizations to file complaints if their rights are violated, while also clarifying that failure to file does not preclude legal action against the institution. Institutions are required to provide clear information on their free speech policies, ensuring transparency for students. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and includes an emergency clause for immediate implementation upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-2120