Texas Governor Signs Law Protecting Free Speech on College Campuses

SB 18, the bill Governor Greg Abbott signed, establishes that "common outdoor areas" of a university are to be considered as public forums. It allows students "to assemble or distribute written material without a permit or other permission" from the university, and institutes penalties for students, student organizations, or faculty who "unduly interfere with the expressive activities of others on campus." The bill also protects student organizations from being denied university services based on the organization's viewpoint.

Texas's move to protect free speech is part of a broader movement across the country. Multiple states such as Alabama, Kentucky, South Dakota and Tennessee have signed legislation protecting free speech on college campuses.

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