North Carolina college students could lose financial aid if they assault police

“A North Carolina law that puts college students’ financial aid in jeopardy if they assault a police officer is facing criticism as the academic year begins.

One professor suggested it could be racist and another said it could “chill” students’ right to protest, The Daily Tar Heel reports.

The law passed in July as part of the state budget. Starting Dec. 1, it will cut off in-state tuition benefits and state financial aid, including grants and scholarships, to students convicted of the crime, according to the student newspaper. It applies to assaulting state employees as well as police officers.”