SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Mike Halpin’s measure to secure the rights of students, faculty and higher education institutions has passed the Senate.
“Speech, free expression and free assembly are fundamental rights guaranteed to all Americans,” said Halpin (D-Rock Island). “We need to stand by our higher education institutions and our students in the midst of pressure online and from the federal government to restrict these rights.”
House Bill 4304 would protect the constitutional rights of students in higher education institutions and spell out additional academic rights. These rights would include an inclusive and safe learning environment, accessibility, free expression and academic access, freedom of association and organization, peaceful protest, academic transparency, fair evaluation, educational records, protection of academic programs from political interference, career preparation, educational quality, due process, institutional accountability, financial transparency, refunds and withdrawals and right to transfer.
The legislation would reinforce the core principles and preservation of integrity, independence, and academic freedom of its public institutions of higher education and in supporting students' pursuit of learning, inquiry, and career readiness.
“Higher education institutions are a venue for young minds to learn, speak and exchange ideas without fear of retaliation,” said Halpin. “If Illinois intends to build a future that lasts, we need to support and uplift these core values.”
House Bill 4304 has passed the Senate and heads to the governor’s desk.
