SB280 Alabama 2021 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

Shay ShelnuttSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2021

Title

Education, prohibit public institutions of higher education from providing support for organizations affiliated with China government

Summary

SB280 would ban public colleges and universities in Alabama from supporting or using campus facilities for cultural institutes affiliated with the government of China.

What This Bill Does

If enacted, public institutions of higher education may not provide support for, funding for, or use their campus facilities for the operation of cultural institutes affiliated with, funded by, or supported by the government of China (such as Confucius Institutes). The bill defines 'public institution of higher education' based on existing Alabama law and requires these institutions to comply through their boards of trustees. The act would take effect on the first day of the third month following its passage and approval by the Governor.

Who It Affects

• Public institutions of higher education in Alabama (colleges and universities) — barred from supporting, funding, or hosting these institutes on campus
• Boards of trustees and university administrators — responsible for ensuring compliance with the act
• Cultural institutes affiliated with, funded by, or supported by the government of China (e.g., Confucius Institutes) — would be prohibited from operating on campus

Key Provisions

• Prohibits public institutions of higher education from providing support for, funding for, or using campus facilities for the operation of cultural institutes affiliated with, funded by, or supported by the government of China
• Defines 'public institution of higher education' to have the same meaning as Section 16-5-1, Code of Alabama 1975
• Requires constitutional boards of trustees to comply with the requirements of this act
• Delieves that the act becomes effective on the first day of the third month after its passage and Governor's approval (or otherwise becoming law)

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 23, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Education