Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes first amendment protections for student journalists at public high schools and universities.

Highlights:

• Prohibits the suppression of material in school-sponsored media in public high schools and universities  on the basis that the material is sensitive or political in nature (Sec. A).

• Specifies that material in school-sponsored media may be suppressed if it is libelous, violates privacy, violates state or federal law, or incites students such that a clear and present danger of unlawful activity exists (Sec. A).

• Requires school districts to develop a written policy protecting freedom of the press (Sec. A).

• Specifies that no material created or published by student journalists shall be considered to present the opinion of any school district (Sec. A).

• Specifies that student journalists who have reached the age of majority can be held liable in court for material presented in school sponsored media (Sec. A).

Full Bill Text