FIRST AMENDMENT ISSUES 

The Department of Education�s Office for Civil Rights enforces regulations in conformity with the requirements of the First Amendment. OCR has issued guidance clarifying that the regulations: 

• protect students from invidious discrimination, not regulate the content of speech

 

• do not require or recommend speech, conduct or harassment rules that make it difficult to enjoy the liberties protected under the First Amendment

 

These regulations are not intended to:

 

• infringe on rights protected under the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution

 

• require funding recipients to create or enforce codes punishing individuals invoking these rights

For an explanation of the Office for Civil Rights� position see First Amendment Dear Colleague letter.