H.R. 4795
HouseProtect Economic and Academic Freedom Act of 2026
Sponsor: Rep. Stefanik (R-NY)
The House of Representatives has passed this bill. It now moves to the Senate.
In brief
This legislation prohibits institutions of higher education from receiving federal funds if they implement policies that restrict free speech or academic freedom. It requires universities to submit annual reports on their speech policies and establishes a private right of action for students whose rights are violated. The bill applies to all colleges and universities receiving federal aid nationwide. Introduced by Rep. Stefanik (R-NY), it is currently under review.
Votes recorded
Tallies as reported by the House Clerk and the Senate. Individual member votes are available on the linked source page.
Timeline
Every recorded action, oldest first.
September 3, 2026 · House
Passed the House
The House passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act by a vote of 237-169.
Passed 237-169
Next: Awaits consideration in the Senate.
SourceSeptember 3, 2026 · House
Vote recorded
The House passed the Protect Economic and Academic Freedom Act by a vote of 237-169.
Passed 237-169
Next: Awaits consideration in the Senate.
SourceSeptember 6, 2026 · House
Introduced
Prevents federally funded universities from restricting specific types of economic or academic inquiry.
Next: Referred to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.
SourceSeptember 6, 2026 · House
Debated
Links federal university funding to the protection of free speech.
Next: Awaits House Education Committee markup.
Source