Free Speech

State University System Chancellor Ray Rodrigues sent a letter to Florida university presidents with instructions to "deactivate" a pro-Palestine student group on campuses.

The challenge, filed by the group NCF Freedom and several New College professors and students, says restrictions in the law would strip away numerous course offerings from its students.

Five Florida colleges join top schools in the U.S. in a report ranking free-speech climate and culture on college campuses. Once again, Florida State University is near the top.

The proposed bill also targets funding for diversity, equity and inclusion programs.

In a 56-page document, DeSantis' attorneys say the state Senate should decide the case brought by the suspended Hillsborough state attorney.

Nova Southeastern University was scheduled to host a screening of the locally-produced documentary "The Poison Garden", which delves in racial injustice in South Florida. But the event was canceled after NSU staff raised concerns the film could be too politically provocative.

On this week's Florida Roundup: A new rule clamps down on who can demonstrate at the Florida Capitol — and what they can say. Plus: The "Live Local Act" is getting bipartisan support in Tallahassee, and spring breakers are smiling despite red tide.

The American Historical Association recently issued a statement opposing Florida's HB 999, which they argue would give the state too much power over higher education.

A Florida House committee has advanced a bill that would make it easier for journalists and their media outlets to be sued.

Andrew Warren is appealing his suspension by Gov. Ron DeSantis. His case will be heard in May.

Florida lawmakers will consider a proposal to re-write rules around who is considered a public figure, and what circumstances would constitute a defamation claim against media outlets. The proposals are raising concerns about their constitutionality and whether they violate free speech rights.

Free speech could be at risk if a new bill in Tallahassee becomes law, says the executive director of the First Amendment Foundation.