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Committee advances bill to let students seek alternatives to coursework that conflicts with conscience
Summary
The House Education Committee approved the first substitute to HB204 by roll call (8–1). Sponsor Representative Peterson and legal expert Robin Fretwell Wilson said the bill protects students at state institutions from compelled speech and allows alternative assignments unless they cause a ‘fundamental alteration’ to required learning outcomes.
Representative Peterson explained HB204 and told the committee the bill aims to give students at state institutions a process to request an alternative assignment when required coursework conflicts with religious belief or conscience. He cited examples such as assignments asking students to advocate to a lawmaker or prepare arguments that would violate an individual's convictions.
Professor Robin Fretwell Wilson, testifying as a law professor and consultant (not speaking for the…
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