Loading chat...

NY A00624

Bill

Status

Introduced

1/8/2025

Primary Sponsor

William Barclay

Click for details

Origin

Assembly

2025-2026 General Assembly

AI Summary

  • Requires the Board of Regents to adopt a free speech policy for all SUNY and CUNY institutions within 120 days of the act taking effect

  • Mandates that campuses remain neutral on political controversies, allow invited speakers regardless of viewpoint, and designate public areas as open forums for any speaker

  • Establishes escalating disciplinary penalties for students who disrupt others' free expression: one-week suspension for first offense, two-week minimum for second, full semester for third, and expulsion for fourth offense

  • Requires colleges to inform incoming students about free speech policies through workshops, seminars, discussion groups, and film presentations

  • Creates a private right of action allowing individuals whose expressive rights are violated to sue for injunctive relief, compensatory damages, court costs, and attorney's fees

Legislative Description

Relates to requiring the regents to adopt a policy that ensures all students enrolled at state university of New York and city university of New York institutions are able to express themselves freely without fear of intimidation or harm.

Last Action

referred to higher education

1/7/2026

Committee Referrals

Higher Education1/8/2025

Full Bill Text

No bill text available