Draft legislation has been published with the aim of guaranteeing free speech in US college campuses.

The proposals would attempt to reinstate free expression by stopping institutions from disinviting controversial speakers, and explicitly teaching students that universities exist to uphold the First Amendment.

The new rules were published last week by the Goldwater Institute think tank, with the aim of forming a model for state legislatures to debate, amend and pass.

Although they would only apply to state colleges, the authors believe their new rules would have a ripple effect and also change the culture at private institutions.

The draft legislation contains a host of new provisions, including efforts to roll back existing practices on campus and also tough rules to deter would-be infringements.

In the most extreme circumstances, students who repeatedly stopped their peers from expressing themselves for example, through violent protest could be expelled.

An introduction to the publication said:

Nowhere is the need for open debate more important than on Americas college campuses. Students maturing from teenagers into adults must be confronted with new ideas, especially ideas with which they disagree, if they are to become informed and responsible members of a free society.

The model bill offered herein is designed to change the balance of forces contributing to the current baleful national climate for campus free speech.

Some of the proposals include:

campuses of the institution are open to any speaker whom students, student groups, or members of the faculty have invited. (1.5)

It is not the proper role of the institution to shield individuals from speech protected by the First Amendment, including, without limitation, ideas and opinions they find unwelcome, disagreeable, or even deeply offensive (1.2)

The policy shall include a range of disciplinary sanctions for anyone under the jurisdiction of the institution who interferes with the free expression of others. (1.7)

Any student who has twice been found responsible for infringing the expressive rights of others will be suspended for a minimum of one year, or expelled. (1.9)

State institutions of higher education shall include in freshman orientation programs a section describing to all students the policies and regulations regarding free expression consistent with this act. (3)

Excerpt from:

There's a Law Being Drafted to Guarantee Free Speech on Campus ... - Heat Street