Greenville Reporter

Congressman Greg Murphy has introduced a new bill aimed at addressing unlawful protests on college campuses. The proposed legislation, known as the Education Not Agitation Act, seeks to remove tax benefits for individuals who are convicted of criminal offenses during protests at higher education institutions.

In a statement, Congressman Murphy emphasized the importance of maintaining peaceful and lawful demonstrations. "Institutions of higher education are entrusted to cultivate robust world views," he said. "Unfortunately, many prestigious universities in America have become bastions of hateful ideology and criminal behavior. The First Amendment is sacred, and I encourage students to exercise their right to freedom of speech and assembly. However, protests on college campuses should remain peaceful and lawful. Those who abuse their privilege and disregard the law should not benefit from the tax benefits we have in place to financially help folks further their education."

The legislation targets individuals convicted of specific offenses such as unlawful assembly, rioting, trespassing, vandalism, battery, or battery on a law enforcement officer during campus protests. Those found guilty will lose eligibility for various education-related tax benefits like the American Opportunity Tax Credit, the Lifetime Learning Tax Credit, and student loan interest deductions.