The public is allowed to visit SLAC on several monthly guided tours, or people can attend sponsored lectures or come to a STEM Community Day in the fall.
First Amendment experts say no applause rules aren’t illegal and agree they’re often necessary, but it's a balancing act between protecting free speech and selective enforcement, especially when local leaders are under scrutiny.
The new ordinance goes into effect on March 6 and the Community Development Agency is required to report back to the board on its implementation in February 2026.