SACRAMENTO, California — A new California law designed to protect Jewish students from antisemitism on college campuses is under legal challenge as opponents question its impact on free speech rights.
The legislation, enacted earlier this year, seeks to prevent antisemitic harassment and discrimination at state universities and colleges. Lawmakers introduced the measure after reports of increased antisemitic incidents affecting Jewish students across the state.
State legislators who backed the law insist that it targets discriminatory conduct, not political discussion. They contend that the legislation was drafted with attention to constitutional protections for free expression.
The legal dispute underscores the broader national debate over how universities can address hate speech without violating the First Amendment. Courts will determine whether California’s approach complies with constitutional standards.
For now, the law remains in effect as higher education institutions work to implement its provisions. The case’s outcome could influence how other states balance campus safety with free speech protections in the future.