SB63
Log in to followAN ACT relating to student journalist freedom.
Create a new section of KRS Chapter 158 to state legislative findings; define terms; establish additional free speech protections for student journalists; place limitations on additional protections; establish protections for student media advisors; require each local school board to adopt a written policy for time, place, and manner restrictions and for an appeals procedure; provide that student speech not be considered school speech; allow for a student journalist or student media advisor to seek injunctive relief; provide that the Act may be cited as the New Voices Act.
Introduced: January 12, 2026
Last action: January 12, 2026
Plain-language summary
This bill, known as the New Voices Act, would expand free speech protections for student journalists in Kentucky schools and protect teachers or advisors who oversee student media. It would require local school boards to create written policies on when, where, and how student expression can be limited, and would allow students or advisors to go to court if they believe those protections have been violated. Who it may affect: students working in school journalism or media programs, and school staff who serve as media advisors.
Legislative History
Primary Sponsor
Co-sponsors (1)
