STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS29622 / H0684
This bill protects our 1st amendment rights to free speech on our institutions of higher learning. This legislative
language:
1). Defines key campus terms.
2). Defines protected, lawful activities including all forms of peaceful assembly, protests, speeches, guest
speakers, distribution of literature, etc.
3). Defines outdoor areas that are publicly accessible but public institutions can maintain and enforce reasonable
time, place, and manner restrictions.
4). Defines free expressive activity and states that no public institution of higher education shall abridge the
constitutional freedom of any member of the campus community to speak on campus.
5). Defines those public institutions of higher education are required to make public for students the policies
regarding free expression.
6). Defines for reporting to the Governor and the legislature to include any claims or complaints. Nothing
shall be interpreted as requiring the institution to include any information from a student’s education record
that would be prohibited in section 74-106(1), Idaho Code.
7). Defines for remedies with injunctive relief; compensatory damages; reasonable court costs; attorney fees.
FISCAL NOTE
There is no impact to the general fund nor to any local government because this legislation centers on campus
policies related to free speech. Ultimately this will save the state money by preventing lawsuits that are
occurring throughout the county due to institutions of higher education limiting campus free speech.
Contact:
Representative Barbara Ehardt
Representative John McCrostie
(208) 332-1000
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 02/25/2022, 7:56 AM