HEA 101: Intellectual Diversity

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Overview
The new HEA law includes non-binding “sense-of-Congress” language regarding student speech and association.

Background

“Sense-of-Congress” language regarding student speech and association has been included in Higher Education Act reauthorization proposals introduced during the past three Congresses.  Such provisions were first included in 2004 to accommodate the interests of supporters of a more extensive "Academic Bill of Rights" resolution (H. Con. Res. 318), which was introduced by Rep. Jack Kingston (R-Ga.). 

Kingston characterized his resolution as an effort to safeguard a student's right to "get an education rather than an indoctrination."   The primary concern driving his proposal is the perceived lack of conservative voices in college classrooms and as guest speakers on campus.

More detailed information about the history of this provision may be found in the 2005 NAICU Issue Summary on Intellectual Diversity. 


Statutory Language