The Students Bill of Rights Act of 2024 would require public colleges and universities that receive federal funding to protect First Amendment rights for students and student organizations. Specifically, the bill would prevent schools from denying recognition to student groups based on lack of faculty advisors, national affiliations, or other viewpoint-based reasons, and would require institutions to establish clear, viewpoint-neutral standards for funding student organizations and assessing security fees for events. Students or organizations harmed by violations could sue in federal court for damages, attorney fees, and court costs within two years of the violation, and schools found in violation would face loss of federal higher education funding unless they correct the problem within 30 days and submit evidence of compliance. The Secretary of Education would be required to report annually to Congress on violations and enforcement actions. The bill would not affect colleges' obligations under civil rights laws related to discrimination.
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