Missouri 2023 Regular Session

Missouri Senate Bill SB497

Introduced
1/17/23  

Caption

Prohibits schools from providing course materials or instruction on gender identity or gender reassignment

Impact

If enacted, SB 497 would significantly affect how schools handle human sexuality education, specifically by restricting discussions on gender identity. Local school boards would have to conform to the guidelines and limitations imposed by this bill, which would potentially centralize educational standards regarding human sexuality. Furthermore, it mandates that parents be informed about curriculum content and retains their right to opt their children out of specific instructional components.

Summary

Senate Bill 497, introduced in the 102nd General Assembly, focuses on the education curriculum concerning human sexuality in Missouri's schools. It aims to prohibit schools from providing any materials or instruction related to gender identity or gender reassignment, which reflects ongoing debates about educational content and parental control in schools. The bill emphasizes that any human sexuality instruction must present medically and factually accurate information, primarily promoting abstinence as the preferred behavior, and stresses the importance of parental notification regarding such instruction.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding SB 497 has emerged as polarized. Proponents argue that it protects children from discussions they deem inappropriate and reinforces parental authority over educational content. On the other hand, opponents view the bill as discriminatory and harmful, limiting access to comprehensive educational resources needed for a well-rounded understanding of human sexuality and gender issues. This clash reflects broader national conversations about the role of sexuality education and LGBTQ+ representation in schools.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the bill's outright prohibition of discussing gender identity, which many argue could lead to a lack of understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals among students. Critics fear this may isolate and stigmatize students who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. Additionally, the nuances around what constitutes medically and factually accurate education may lead to further conflict between educational authorities and advocacy groups, as differing interpretations of these terms could restrict vital information from being taught in schools.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MO SB727

Creates and modifies provisions relating to elementary and secondary education

MO HB1351

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO HB40

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO SB26

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO SB852

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO HB1624

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO SB310

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO SB88

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

MO HB195

Public K-12 schools, sex education curriculum further provided for, sexual risk avoidance established as exclusive sex education curriculum, local boards of education prohibited from using services of org. that endorses other approaches to sex education, parent or guardian notice of sex ed curriculum required, cause of action for violations established

MO HB741

Relating to health education curriculum and instruction in public schools.

Similar Bills

TX SB6

Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.

TX HB6

Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools.

TX SB1481

Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.

TX HB4140

Relating to the instructional materials and technology allotment, open education resource instructional materials, and the State Board of Education long-range technology plan.

HI HB388

Relating To Education.

HI SB108

Relating To Instructional Materials.

HI SB108

Relating To Instructional Materials.

TX SB6

Relating to the foundation curriculum, the establishment of the instructional materials allotment, and the adoption, review, and purchase of instructional materials and technological equipment for public schools; providing penalties.