Missouri Senate debates bill to protect belief-based student groups; amendment to clarify anti-discrimination language adopted

A Missouri Senate measure that would bar public colleges and universities from denying recognition or benefits to belief-based student associations drew extended debate Wednesday over how the policy should handle organizations whose views could lead to violence or discrimination.

The bill, Senate Bill 160, would prohibit public institutions of higher learning from taking adverse action against student associations because of their beliefs or the actions of their leaders and would require institutions to provide benefits to belief-based groups on the same terms as other student organizations, including access to facilities and communications channels. "This bill is a short and narrowly written bill that solves a very specific problem," Senator Herbstone, the senator from Stone, said in introducing the measure, adding that it would codify existing constitutional protections and reduce the risk of litigation.

Supporters said the bill clarifies First Amendment protections for student groups and mirrors laws in other states. Sponsor statements noted similar legislation previously passed in the Missouri House and referenced earlier bills in other sessions. "I look forward to Missouri becoming the twentieth state to adopt this common-sense measure," the sponsor said in floor remarks summarizing the bill's intent.

Opponents and several colleagues raised concerns that the statutory language, as drafted, could prevent campuses from…