WI AB501

UW System institutions and technical colleges are prohibited from restricting First Amendment-protected speech, designating "free speech zones," or charging security fees based on the content of expression or anticipated audience reaction

Instructors retain academic freedom to conduct research, publish, lecture, teach, and speak publicly as private citizens on matters of public concern without institutional limitation

Students, employees, and organizations facing disciplinary proceedings with potential suspension over 9 days or expulsion have the right to legal representation at their own expense, with full participation rights including cross-examination of witnesses

Institutions must conduct biennial surveys on First Amendment rights, academic freedom, and campus culture regarding self-censorship, and provide annual instruction to all students and employees on these protections

Violations create a civil cause of action with minimum damages of $500 plus $50 per day ongoing (capped at $100,000 per controversy), and institutions found in violation must include a disclaimer on admission notices for 4 years; repeated due process violations trigger a 2-year tuition freeze