Rachel Silberstein is reporting for the Times Union Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy is drawing criticism for its latest student conduct policy. The private university August 29, published new requirements stating that students may distribute written materials on campus only if they are part of a what the school defines as a recognized student organization. They must also receive express permission from a school administrator to circulate the information. Critics say the new guidelines are worded in a way that will quell dissent and impede free speech. School officials argue the limits are necessary to prevent solicitors, like credit card companies, from gaining campus access. RPI has been criticized for its crackdowns on student protests. The Foundation for Individual Rights in Education, a Philadelphia-based nonprofit group that promotes civil liberties on college campuses, has included RPI on its list of 10 worst campuses for freedom of expression. In light of the newly released policy, the group is calling on the school in an open letter to "abandon its continued efforts to suppress free speech." Read the full story in the Times Union.