Pictured Above: In opposition to expulsions and suspensions across the country, Gov. Ron DeSantis suggested a “College Bill of Rights.”
Aya Diab | The Crow’s Nest
By Trevor Martindale
Following strict enforcement of COVID-19 guidelines from universities around the country, Gov. Ron DeSantis is floating the idea of creating a “College Bill of Rights.”
Punishments for violating COVID-19 guidelines at universities have ranged from mass suspensions to expulsions.
Twenty New York University students were suspended in the first week of classes for violating social distancing guidelines.
After 11 first-year Northeastern University students were found gathered in a hotel room, they were dismissed from the university.
Florida State University recently announced it would be punishing students who do not comply with the university’s COVID-19 policies.
DeSantis does not agree with the actions that have been taken by various universities.
“I personally think it’s incredibly draconian that a student would get potentially expelled for going to a party,” DeSantis said. “That’s what college kids do.”
DeSantis has not specified when or how he would enact a potential ‘bill of rights.’
Students had mixed reactions to DeSantis’ proposal.
Junior finance major Brennon Larsen agrees with the guidelines for COVID-19, but questions the punitive measures taken by some universities.
“I think it is of the utmost importance to stay as safe as possible to protect yourself from COVID-19,” Larsen said. “However, that does not mean you need to stay inside your home or dorm at all times and not live your life. For 18 to 22 year old young adults to be expelled for ‘partying’ is very extreme in my opinion. (It is) not right to ruin someone’s life because a college thinks they are doing something wrong.”
Junior marine biology major Caleb Crawford agrees that expulsion is harsh, but believes punitive decisions should be left up to the universities.
“I agree with him that it is a harsh punishment,” Crawford said. “I know what he’s trying to do, but I feel like it should be up to each college (to decide) how they want to punish students.”
Connor Baird, a junior political science major and SG senator, has many criticisms of DeSantis, but understands his perspective on this issue.
“I cannot say that I disagree with him,” Baird said in an email to The Crow’s Nest. “When you become a college student you assume new responsibilities that many of us did not have in high school. We (essentially) become adults. This is why I support a college ‘bill of rights.’”
Baird also encouraged students to continue to follow COVID-19 guidelines.
“At the same time, with this new responsibility, we have to ensure we are following basic guidelines to keep ourselves and those around us safe,” Baird said.
