Tennessee lawmakers sent Republican Gov. Bill Lee a bill that would require public colleges to adopt elements of the University of Chicago’s free expression policy, including a provision barring “staging walkouts” during campus events and invited speaker remarks. HB 1476 defines walkouts as “considerable disruption” or any pause in events, however short, and sets a disciplinary pathway that begins with probation and can lead to suspension and expulsion for repeat violations. The bill also prevents colleges from disinviting speakers due to their beliefs or in response to opposition. Supporters framed the measure as protecting free speech by preventing interference, while critics warned the language is ambiguous and that implementation could reflect political bias. Faculty speech advocates argued that walkouts can be one of the least disruptive protest methods.