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KS SB421
Bill
Status
1/29/2026
Primary Sponsor
Education
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AI Summary
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Kansas SB 421, the "SPEAKS Act," prohibits K-12 public schools from discriminating against or penalizing students for religious, political, or ideological speech and expression
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Protected activities include expressing viewpoints in class discussions and assignments, organizing gatherings and clubs before/during/after school, and wearing clothing or accessories with religious, political, or ideological messages
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Student clubs may require leaders and members to affirm the organization's beliefs, standards of conduct, and mission without facing school discrimination
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Schools retain authority to restrict speech not protected by the First Amendment, including threats, obscenity, severe harassment that denies equal educational access, and conduct that substantially disrupts school operations
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Students or clubs whose rights are violated may sue for declaratory/injunctive relief, monetary damages of at least $5,000 per violation, and attorney fees, with a two-year statute of limitations and no school immunity from liability
Legislative Description
Enacting the safeguarding personal expression at K-12 schools act to authorize students and student clubs or organizations to engage in certain speech or expression at school and providing a civil cause of action for violations of the act.
Last Action
Senate Withdrawn from Committee on Ways and Means and referred to Committee of the Whole
3/2/2026