Federal bill shields fraternity and sorority members from college penalties

What does this do?

S 1225 would amend the Higher Education Act to prohibit federally funded colleges from penalizing students for membership in single-sex social organizations such as fraternities and sororities. Colleges could not block those students from financial aid, scholarships, campus jobs, housing, sports teams, or letters of recommendation because of that membership. Colleges could also not impose special recruiting restrictions on these organizations without written agreement from the organization itself.

Who does it affect?

The bill affects college students who belong to or are considering joining single-sex fraternities, sororities, or similar social clubs. It also affects colleges and universities that receive federal funding.

Why does it matter?

Students at schools that have tried to penalize participation in these groups would gain new federal protections against those policies. Schools that already permit these organizations to operate freely would face little practical change under the bill.

Where does it stand?