An act relating to student freedom of expression rights in school-sponsored media in approved independent schools and postsecondary schools

This bill (H 497) requires all approved independent schools and postsecondary schools in Vermont to comply with existing student freedom of expression rights for school-sponsored media, as defined in Vermont law. Specifically, it mandates that independent schools follow 16 V.S.A. § 1623 and postsecondary schools follow 16 V.S.A. § 180. The law ensures students can express views through school publications and media without censorship by school authorities. It directly affects students and school administrators at these institutions by requiring adherence to established media rights protections. The bill is currently in the Education Committee after its first reading on April 1, 2025.