HB 835: Freedom of Speech and Religious Expression in Public Schools
GENERAL BILL by Borrero
Freedom of Speech and Religious Expression in Public Schools; Prohibits school district from discriminating against students or school personnel on basis of political or ideological viewpoints or expression; prohibits penalty or reward for student's political or ideological expression in coursework, artwork, or other specified assignments; authorizes student to wear clothing, accessories, & jewelry displaying political or ideological messages or symbols; authorizes student to engage in political or ideological activities or expression; authorizes student to organize political or ideological groups, clubs, & other gatherings; requires that school district provide political or ideological groups with equal access to school facilities; authorizes political or ideological groups to advertise or announce meetings in same manner & to same extent as other groups; requires that DOE develop & publish model policy regarding limited public forum & political or ideological expression; creates private cause of action for persons & student organizations harmed by specified violations; provides for specified awards to such persons & organizations; authorizes such persons & organizations to use specified violations as defense or counterclaim; provides applicability; requires such actions to be brought within specified period of time; provides that state waives specified immunity; provides school district liability.
Last Action: 1/5/2026 House - Now in Student Academic Success Subcommittee
Bill Text: PDF
Bill History
| Date | Chamber | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 12/18/2025 | House |
• Filed |
| 1/5/2026 | House |
• Referred to Student Academic Success Subcommittee • Referred to Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee • Referred to Education & Employment Committee • Now in Student Academic Success Subcommittee |
