In response to the rising number of anti-Israel demonstrations on college campuses across the nation, Republican Senator JD Vance of Ohio has introduced the Encampments or Endowments Act. This proposed legislation would make universities ineligible for federal funding if they fail to promptly remove protest encampments, which have caused disruptions to classes and events, including graduations. The bill is a direct response to the escalating protests, which have seen over 2,200 arrests or detentions at 49 campuses in 26 states between April 18 and May 3. Under the proposed legislation, universities that do not clear encampments within a week would lose eligibility for financial assistance under the Higher Education Act of 1965, which provides various programs to support post-secondary education and assist students with the cost of school. Additionally, ineligible schools would be barred from participating in Title IV programs.
Senator Vance’s bill underscores the growing concerns about the handling of these demonstrations, with Republicans criticizing both the universities and the Biden administration for their perceived lack of action. Despite President Biden and Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona condemning antisemitism, they have not supported Republican requests to prosecute or deport the protesting students. The Encampments or Endowments Act aims to force colleges to take a more proactive approach in addressing these encampments, prioritizing the safety and well-being of their students while upholding the law.
The bill includes provisions that require ineligible schools to provide grant-based aid to continuously enrolled students to compensate for the lost federal aid. If they fail to do so, they must pay a tax of up to 50% of their endowment assets. This significant financial penalty aims to deter universities from tolerating protest encampments that disrupt campus life and create an unsafe environment for students. The ineligibility period would last for five years from the date of determination by the Education Department.
The Encampments or Endowments Act has garnered significant attention, with Republicans supporting its potential to curb anti-Israel demonstrations and protect campus safety. The legislation is currently under consideration, and it remains to be seen whether it will gain enough support to become law. However, it serves as a strong statement of intent from Senator Vance and his fellow Republicans, who believe that universities have a responsibility to maintain order and protect their students from the disruptions caused by these encampments.
