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House plans to debate free speech protections

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The House is set to debate two measures protecting students' rights to free speech on college campuses.

Republican Rep. Paul Boyer of Phoenix sponsored a bill that would award attorney fees and at least $500 to students who are successful in lawsuits against universities and community colleges for illegally restricting First Amendment rights.

Rep. Anthony Kern of Glendale is sponsoring a bill that would prevent colleges and universities from restricting free speech to a specific area on campus.

Paradise Valley Community College is currently involved in a lawsuit for creating a specific free speech zone that prosecutors say has a chilling effect on the First Amendment rights of students.

The House plans to debate House Bill 2548 and House Bill 2615 Tuesday afternoon.