Michigan GOP Representative Tim Walberg and Senators James Lankford (R-OK) and Tim Scott (R-SC) have introduced the Equal Campus Access Act, legislation aimed at protecting the rights of religious student organizations at public colleges and universities.
The bill would amend the Higher Education Act to prohibit federal funds from going to institutions that deny religious student groups the same rights afforded to other student organizations because of their beliefs, practices, or leadership standards.
“All too frequently, we hear about instances of students’ free speech and free association being restricted on college campuses, especially due to their religious beliefs,” Walberg said in a statement. He added that the measure is designed to ensure future administrations cannot erode protections for religious freedom and ideological diversity on campuses.
Supporters say the legislation would safeguard students’ ability to gather and express their faith without fear of discrimination.