UtahH.B. 3902025 General SessionHouseWALLET

Religious Expression in Higher Education

Sponsored By: Karianne Lisonbee (Republican)

Signed by Governor

EducationHigher EducationHigher Education StudentsOn-campus Speech

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.

Court relief for violated campus rights

Beginning May 7, 2025, people whose protected expression rights are violated, or Utah’s attorney general, can sue in state court. When a rights-holder sues and the court finds a violation, it must order the violation stopped and award at least $500. The award adds $50 for each day the violation continues after the person notifies the institution. A winning plaintiff may also receive compensation for losses, court costs, and lawyer fees. Institutions cannot use the Governmental Immunity Act to avoid liability for these violations.

Stronger protections for Utah student groups

Beginning May 7, 2025, Utah public colleges must protect student-run clubs seeking or holding recognition and seeking or receiving club benefits. Colleges cannot discriminate or deny recognition, registration, meeting or speaking space, communication channels, or otherwise available funding because of religious, political, or ideological identity or protected expression by groups or members. Protected expression includes peaceful protests, speeches, literature, signs, petitions, and other constitutionally protected activity. Groups can require leaders to follow their sincerely held beliefs, conduct standards, or group-defined mission without losing benefits. Colleges must keep speech policies neutral in wording and use, respect group rights, publish policies online and in student handbooks, and include policy information in orientation. They must also develop training programs and materials for staff responsible for student discipline or education, including administrators, campus police, residence staff, and faculty.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Karianne Lisonbee
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Keven J. Stratton
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 113 • No: 10

Senate vote • 3/7/2025

Senate/ passed 2nd & 3rd readings/ suspension

Yes: 21 • No: 6

Senate vote • 3/3/2025

Senate Comm - Favorable Recommendation

Yes: 4 • No: 1

House vote • 2/24/2025

House/ floor amendment

Yes: 0 • No: 0

House vote • 2/24/2025

House/ passed 3rd reading

Yes: 64 • No: 3

House vote • 2/18/2025

House Comm - Amendment Recommendation

Yes: 12 • No: 0

House vote • 2/18/2025

House Comm - Favorable Recommendation

Yes: 12 • No: 0

House vote • Unknown