New Free Speech Laws Are Adopted or Considered in Many States

Inside Higher Education reports that, following some high-profile disruptions of controversial campus speakers over the past few years, a number of states have adopted or are considering legislation that would punish protestors who disrupt the speech or expression of others. The laws are designed to protect the rights of speakers (whether they are guests on campus or members of the institution's own community) who are likely to draw vocal protestors, situations that are expected to become more common as the 2020 election approaches.

From Inside Higher Education: "A legislative proposal pending in the Wisconsin Legislature is far from a light touch. It requires University of Wisconsin system colleges to adopt certain rules on free speech, including suspending for at least a semester students who have twice been found responsible for 'interfering with the expressive rights of others.' Students who violate free speech policies three times must be expelled."