Missouri State Representative Dirk Deaton (R-McDonald and Newton Counties) is celebrating a significant legislative victory following the signing of Senate Bill 160 by Governor Mike Kehoe. The newly enacted law strengthens protections for student organizations at public colleges and universities, ensuring their constitutional rights to free speech and association are upheld.
SB 160, which Rep. Deaton has long supported and co-sponsored, was carried this session by Sen. Brad Hudson and Rep. Darin Chappell. The legislation prohibits public institutions from denying access to campus resources, facilities, or funding to student organizations based on their beliefs or internal leadership requirements.
The bill provides legal recourse for students and groups whose rights are infringed upon, applying equally to religious, political, and ideological organizations. It ensures equal access to the same benefits and platforms available to all campus groups.
Deaton, first elected in 2018, has represented Missouri’s 159th District through multiple terms. He continues to advocate for First Amendment protections and the rights of students across the state.
