Despite the existence of legitimate scientific debates involving Darwinian theory, the right of teachers and professors to teach students about these debates is often in question. As a result, there have been repeated cases around the country where teachers, professors and students have been intimidated, ridiculed or penalized for discussing scientific criticisms of the theories of chemical and biological evolution. Because of this, some legislators have proposed to protect the academic freedom of teachers and students regarding evolution by statute.
A good example of a model academic freedom bill was enacted in Tennessee in 2012.