Speak Out Act

12/29/2022, 5:33 PM

Speak Out Act

This bill prohibits the judicial enforceability of a predispute nondisclosure clause or predispute nondisparagement clause in a sexual assault dispute or sexual harassment dispute involving conduct that allegedly violates federal, tribal, or state law.

The Speak Out Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 8227, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to protect and promote freedom of speech on college campuses across the country.

The Speak Out Act aims to ensure that all viewpoints, including those that may be controversial or unpopular, are able to be expressed on college campuses without fear of censorship or retaliation. The bill would require colleges and universities to adopt policies that protect free speech rights for students, faculty, and guest speakers.

Additionally, the Speak Out Act would prohibit colleges and universities from creating "free speech zones" or other designated areas where speech is restricted. It would also prevent institutions from disinviting speakers based on the content of their speech. Overall, the Speak Out Act seeks to uphold the First Amendment rights of individuals on college campuses and promote a culture of open dialogue and debate. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to ensure that all voices are heard in the academic community, while critics raise concerns about potential conflicts with existing campus policies and practices. As the Speak Out Act continues to be debated in Congress, it remains to be seen how it will ultimately impact the landscape of free speech on college campuses in the United States.
Congress
117

Number
HR - 8227

Introduced on
2022-06-24

# Amendments
0

Sponsors
+5

Cosponsors
+5

Variations and Revisions

6/24/2022

Status of Legislation

Bill Introduced
Introduced to House
House to Vote
Introduced to Senate
Senate to Vote

Purpose and Summary

Speak Out Act

This bill prohibits the judicial enforceability of a predispute nondisclosure clause or predispute nondisparagement clause in a sexual assault dispute or sexual harassment dispute involving conduct that allegedly violates federal, tribal, or state law.

The Speak Out Act, also known as Bill 117 hr 8227, is a piece of legislation currently being considered by the US Congress. The main goal of this bill is to protect and promote freedom of speech on college campuses across the country.

The Speak Out Act aims to ensure that all viewpoints, including those that may be controversial or unpopular, are able to be expressed on college campuses without fear of censorship or retaliation. The bill would require colleges and universities to adopt policies that protect free speech rights for students, faculty, and guest speakers.

Additionally, the Speak Out Act would prohibit colleges and universities from creating "free speech zones" or other designated areas where speech is restricted. It would also prevent institutions from disinviting speakers based on the content of their speech. Overall, the Speak Out Act seeks to uphold the First Amendment rights of individuals on college campuses and promote a culture of open dialogue and debate. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to ensure that all voices are heard in the academic community, while critics raise concerns about potential conflicts with existing campus policies and practices. As the Speak Out Act continues to be debated in Congress, it remains to be seen how it will ultimately impact the landscape of free speech on college campuses in the United States.
Alternative Names
Official Title as IntroducedTo limit the judicial enforceability of predispute nondisclosure and nondisparagement contract clauses relating to disputes involving sexual assault and sexual harassment.

Policy Areas
Law

Potential Impact
Assault and harassment offenses
Contracts and agency
Crime victims
Sex offenses

Comments

Recent Activity

Latest Summary11/21/2022

Speak Out Act

This bill prohibits the judicial enforceability of a predispute nondisclosure clause or predispute nondisparagement clause in a sexual assault dispute or sexual harassment dispute involving conduct that alleg...


Latest Action7/13/2022
Ordered to be Reported (Amended) by the Yeas and Nays: 22 - 13.