MI HB5040

Prohibits public colleges, universities, junior colleges, and community colleges from disciplining or discriminating against students in counseling, social work, or psychology programs who refuse to counsel clients on goals or behaviors conflicting with their sincerely held religious beliefs.

Allows students to assert conscientious objection to providing certain counseling or services if they refer the client to another counselor willing to provide the services.

Permits persons alleging violations to bring civil actions within 90 days of the violation for injunctive relief, actual damages, or both.

Civil actions may be filed in circuit court in the county where the violation occurred, where the complainant resides, or where the educational institution is located.

Defines damages to include compensation for injury or loss from violations, including reasonable attorney fees.