Michigan State University trustees refuse to sign revised ethics code, citing free speech concerns

Michigan State University trustees Dr. Rema Vassar and Mike Balow refused to sign a revised code of ethics, arguing it unconstitutionally restricts their free speech and was adopted without proper review. The new code requires trustees to support majority board decisions, with sanctions for noncompliance, and has drawn criticism from the national free speech organization FIRE, which claims it violates the First Amendment. The dispute is linked to the recent resignation of former MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, who cited board divisions, and has prompted Vassar to seek guidance from the state attorney general, though the office does not represent the university. The issue is set to be discussed at the board’s next meeting on June 12.