The bill, S.B. No. 306, aims to enhance the protection of expressive activities at public institutions of higher education in Texas. It amends Section 51.9315 of the Education Code, specifically by prohibiting institutions from taking action against student organizations based on their political, religious, philosophical, ideological, or academic viewpoints, as well as any requirements that the organization’s leaders or members affirm their sincerely held beliefs, comply with conduct standards, or further the organization's mission. Additionally, the bill introduces new provisions allowing individuals or organizations to bring legal actions against institutions for violations of these rights, including seeking declaratory judgments or injunctions.

Furthermore, the bill establishes that each day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense, and it allows individuals to use violations as defenses in related legal proceedings. Importantly, it waives the sovereign immunity of institutions concerning liabilities created under this section. The provisions of this bill will apply only to causes of action that accrue on or after its effective date, which is set for September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 51.9315 (Education Code 51)