Colleges - Religious Groups

   NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) - The Tennessee Senate has passed a bill
that would let groups at privately run Vanderbilt University and
public colleges and universities refuse to accept individuals who
don't share their beliefs.
     The bill targets Vanderbilt's policy requiring school groups to
allow any interested student to join and run for office. Christian
student leaders say their groups shouldn't be forced to admit
members, and possibly leaders, who do not share their beliefs.
     Under the legislation, "a religious student organization may
determine that the organization's religious mission requires that
only persons professing the faith of the group ... qualify to serve
as members or leaders."
     A companion bill has been placed on hold in the Tennessee House.
     Gov. Bill Haslam told reporters last week that he doesn't
support Vanderbilt's policy, but doesn't believe lawmakers should
get involved.