Tennessee has sent a bill to Gov. Bill Lee that would require public colleges to adopt restrictions aligned with the University of Chicago’s “Chicago Principles” on free expression, including a ban on “staging walkouts” during invited speakers’ remarks. Under the proposed HB 1476, walkouts are defined as “considerable disruption or distraction” or any requirement to pause an event—even briefly. Violations could trigger disciplinary probation, with suspension and expulsion for repeated offenses. The bill also prevents colleges from disinviting speakers due to beliefs or due to opposition from students or faculty. Supporters frame the package as safeguarding debate, with sponsor Rep. Gino Bulso saying it creates “critical safeguards for students and faculty.” But critics—speech advocates and free-speech experts—warn that the mandates could embed political bias and use unclear language that complicates how institutions interpret free speech rules. Public universities now face immediate policy work: formal adoption of mandated language, compliance training for administrators, and risk assessment for disciplinary processes.