Georgia House Bill HB1290

Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24

Caption

Quality Basic Education Act; course of study in sex education and HIV/AIDS prevention instruction is age appropriate and provides instruction on consent and intimate partner violence and abuse

Impact

If enacted, HB1290 would significantly transform the educational framework within Georgia's schools by mandating inclusion of topics related to human trafficking awareness, consent, and sexual health. This means school districts would have to adapt their curricula to comply with new state standards. Moreover, teachers and school staff would receive in-service training focused on age-appropriate education surrounding these sensitive and crucial issues, thereby improving overall student health education.

Summary

House Bill 1290 aims to enhance education in Georgia by amending the 'Quality Basic Education Act' to include comprehensive instruction in sex education and HIV/AIDS prevention. The bill emphasizes the necessity of age-appropriate curriculums for students in grades K-12, requiring specific focus on intimate partner violence, consent, and the prevention of sexual abuse. By incorporating these topics, it seeks to equip students with critical knowledge and resources that can aid in their overall well-being and safety.

Contention

The introduction of HB1290 may provoke debate among legislators and the public regarding how best to address the sensitive nature of these topics in school settings. Supporters argue that such education is vital to protecting students from potential abuse and enabling them to make informed decisions about their bodies and relationships. Conversely, opponents might express concerns related to the appropriateness of sexual education content for younger audiences, as well as the implications of state-mandated curricula on local educational autonomy.