Number: RL30433
Title: MANDATORY STUDENT FEES AND THE FIRST AMENDMENT: BACKGROUND AND ANALYSIS OF ISSUES IN SOUTHWORTH V. GREBE
Authors: T.J. Halstead, American Law Division 
Abstract: This report discusses Southworth v. Grebe, where the Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit held that a state university may not use mandatory student activity fees to support student groups that engage in political or ideological advocacy. The Seventh Circuit's decision, predicated on First Amendment principles regarding compelled speech, conflicts with precedent established in other circuit courts. Because of this conflict, the Supreme Court granted certiorari in Southworth, with a decision expected this term. This report provides an overview of the Seventh Circuit's decision, with an emphasis on its relation to the dispositions of other courts and established Supreme Court precedent.
Pages: 14
Date: Updated February 15, 2000