Murphy Introduces Legislation to Protect Campus Free Speech

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D., introduced two pieces of legislation to advance campus free speech in the United States: a resolution condemning compelled speech on college campuses and the Campus Free Speech Restoration Act.

"Free speech on university and college campuses across America is fundamental to the constitutional rights and success of students," said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. "Sadly, in recent years, this right has been attacked by liberal administrations and professors. No student should fear for their safety, their grades, or experience retribution for publicly sharing their beliefs. Universities that do not protect the First Amendment rights of their students, or compel certain speech to succeed academically, undermine the spirit of the Constitution and forsake their responsibility to mold tolerant and open-minded individuals.

"Since coming to Congress, advocating for campus free speech protections has been a priority of mine. As a former member of the Board of Trustees at my alma mater, I understand the role institutions of higher education play in shaping young minds. Students should be taught how to think critically, not what to think. It is unbelievable that we have to even discuss this. Open dialogue - allowing ideas to be debated publicly - is the key to building a society capable of overcoming division and finding common ground."

Background
Campus Free Speech Restoration Act
Legislation to require public and private universities to report First Amendment violations to the Department of Education and publicly share campus policies on free speech. Failure to do so would restrict Title IV funding.

Denouncing Compelled Speech Resolution
A resolution condemning universities that compel students during the admissions process or faculty during the hiring and promotion process to submit to certain political or social ideologies.