Walberg, Lankford, Scott Introduce Equal Campus Access Act

Rep. Tim Walberg (R-MI), Sen. James Lankford (R-OK), and Sen. Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced the Equal Campus Access Act. The legislation would amend the Higher Education Act to clarify that no funds shall be made available to a public institution that denies a religious student group any right similarly afforded to other student organizations because of the religious group's 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," said Rep. Walberg. "While the Trump administration and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to protecting student liberties on campuses, we've seen other administrations try to undermine the foundational principle of academic freedom and the right to religious expression. Our legislation will ensure that future administrations cannot erode religious freedom and ideological diversity on college campuses."

"Freedom of religion, speech, and association are Constitutionally protected rights in every place in America, including America's campuses," said Sen. Lankford. "This bill makes clear that public colleges must grant religious student organizations the same rights as every other student group. At a time when our nation needs hope and unity, the ability to exercise your faith must be protected, not cast aside."

Background:

In response to incidents on college campuses where religious student organizations lost rights, benefits, and privileges due to faith-based practices, the Trump administration established a rule in 2020 requiring officials to withdraw federal support for colleges and universities that restrict the activities of religious organizations on campus. The Biden administration attempted to rescind the Trump-Era rule, opening the door for faith-based discrimination on campuses. The Equal Campus Access Act would codify the Trump administration 2020 rule.

The Equal Campus Access Act is supported by 47 faith-based and first amendment organizations. To view their letter of support, click here.

Rep. Tim Walberg serves as the Chairman of the Education and Workforce Committee.