The Florida House of Representatives has passed the ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Bill on Thursday afternoon.
Formerly known as the “Parental Rights in Education Bill,” a vote of 69-47 is what determined its passing status. It will prohibit specific discussions of sexual orientation and gender in classrooms. The bill also allows parents to sue teachers or schools that engage in the topic.
Established by Republican Representative Joe Harding, HB 1557 states: “Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”
Originally proposed earlier this month, the goal of the bill is to reinforce the fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding the upbringing and control of their children.” In addition, an amendment, which has now been withdrawn, would’ve required school principals or any faculty and staff members to disclose the student’s sexual orientation or gender identity within 6 weeks of withholding the information.
Governor Ron DeSantis has shared his support for the bill, saying it’s inappropriate for students to discuss gender identity to teachers without parental involvement. However, President Joe Biden tweeted his opposition against the bill on Feb. 8.
“I want every member of the LGBTQI+ community — especially the kids who will be impacted by this hateful bill — to know that you are loved and accepted just as you are,” Biden wrote. “I have your back, and my Administration will continue to fight for the protections and safety you deserve.”
If the bill is approved by the Senate and signed by DeSantis, it will go into effect by July.
