FL S1478

Removes the definition of "shield" from existing law, which previously meant limiting access to ideas that students, faculty, or staff might find uncomfortable, unwelcome, or offensive

Shifts the State Board of Education and Board of Governors from being prohibited from "shielding" individuals from protected speech to instead requiring them to ensure institutions are free from "undue political influence and interference" in curriculum design, faculty appointments, research activities, and administrative operations

Creates new section 1004.022 granting students the right to pursue education and select courses without governmental or institutional pressure based on political or ideological grounds

Grants faculty members full academic freedom in teaching, research, scholarship, and creative activity, including rights to determine course content, engage in professional discourse without institutional reprisal, and investigate or disseminate knowledge without political interference

Requires faculty academic freedom to be exercised consistent with American Association of University Professors principles and institutional shared governance policies