Louisiana Senate Bill SR11

Louisiana 2019 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/8/19
• Refer: 4/9/19
• Report Pass: 4/29/19
• Passed: 4/30/19

Caption

Requests the secretary of state and the state Department of Education to work together to develop age-appropriate, nonpartisan voter education materials to be used by all students in grades 3-12.

Impact

The passage of SR11 would significantly impact Louisiana's educational framework, integrating voter education into standard curricula for specific grade levels. This would help ensure that students are not only aware of their rights but also motivated to take part in democratic processes. By providing updated materials that are accessible and appropriate for students, the resolution aligns with state policies aimed at fostering civic participation among citizens.

Summary

Senate Resolution 11 (SR11) urges the Secretary of State and the Department of Education in Louisiana to collaborate on developing age-appropriate and nonpartisan voter education materials for students in grades three through twelve. The resolution emphasizes the importance of educating young citizens about their voting rights, registration process, and the importance of participating in elections. The initiative aims to instill civic values and encourage engagement in the democratic process from an early age.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SR11 appears to be positive, reflecting a bipartisan acknowledgment of the need for civic education in schools. Supporters argue that such initiatives are crucial for creating informed and engaged citizens, which strengthens democracy. However, some nuances of concern might arise regarding the nature of the materials to be developed and ensuring they remain nonpartisan, as educators often emphasize the need to avoid bias in discussions of civic responsibilities.

Contention

While SR11 is generally welcomed, there may be points of contention regarding the balance between educational content quality and political neutrality. Stakeholders may debate how to ensure that materials developed are inclusive and accurately represent all facets of the electoral process without skewing toward specific political agendas. Additionally, educators would need to align these teaching resources with existing curriculum standards, raising questions about implementation and potential funding.