Texas Legislature Approves SB 2972 to Restrict Campus Protests

By: Ark-La-Tex Staff Writer

The Texas Legislature has approved Senate Bill 2972, introducing new restrictions on protests and expressive activities at public colleges and universities across the state. The bill now awaits Governor Greg Abbott’s signature and will automatically take effect on June 22 if not vetoed.

Under the new law, public higher education institutions must prohibit “expressive activities” on campus between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. The measure also bans camping or setting up tents year-round, forbids wearing masks or disguises intended to obstruct identification, and prohibits lowering U.S. or Texas flags to raise another nation’s flag with intent. Additionally, amplified sound is restricted during class hours, especially in the final two weeks of the semester, and protesters must present a valid university-issued ID upon request. Universities are required to revise their campus protest policies to reflect these new rules and post them publicly.

Senator Brandon Creighton (R–Conroe), who sponsored the bill, said it is a response to “campus occupations and disruptions” during national pro-Palestinian demonstrations in spring 2024, citing concerns about safety and disruptions to campus operations. He emphasized that while freedom of speech is protected, it must operate within defined boundaries.

Critics, however, argue the bill reverses a 2019 law that broadly protected free speech on college common areas. By allowing universities to narrow “public forums” and enforce stricter time, place, and manner restrictions, opponents say the new law risks undermining First Amendment rights. The ACLU of Texas and the Foundation for Individual Rights in Education (FIRE) have raised concerns about the broad and vague nature of the nighttime ban and other provisions, warning they could suppress even lawful expression, such as wearing slogan T-shirts after dark.

Supporters, including Republican legislators like Senator Joan Huffman, contend that the measure protects academic activities from disruption and promotes responsible protest behavior without eliminating speech rights.

If enacted, the law will take effect for the 2025–26 academic year. Universities must adopt or revise their protest policies, designate approved protest zones, and publish clear restrictions along with disciplinary procedures for violations. Legal challenges over First Amendment compliance are expected, particularly regarding the nighttime ban, which has faced judicial scrutiny in other jurisdictions.

SB 2972 represents a notable shift in Texas higher education policy, expanding university authority to regulate expressive speech. Proponents argue it is necessary to maintain safety and order on campus, while opponents warn it could chill free speech and roll back established protections for student expression.