Michigan Senate Bill SB0949

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/26/24
• Refer: 6/26/24

Caption

Education: curriculum; biology content standards and subject area content expectations and guidelines; modify to require instruction on fetal development. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1170c.

Impact

If enacted, SB 949 will impose new requirements on school districts regarding the content taught in biology classes. Educational institutions will need to ensure that their curriculum aligns with this bill by incorporating the appropriate materials that cover human fetal development comprehensively. It is expected to promote a greater awareness and understanding of developmental biology among students, potentially influencing their perceptions of health, growth, and biological processes throughout pregnancy. This addition may also foster discussions regarding reproductive health and rights within the school environment.

Summary

Senate Bill 949 seeks to amend the Revised School Code by introducing section 1170c, which mandates that by the 2025-2026 school year, educational standards for biology must include specific content on human biology related to pregnancy. This includes an overview of human development inside the uterus, and visual components such as a high-definition ultrasound video and computer-generated renderings depicting stages of fetal development and notable growth markers. The bill aims to enhance the biology curriculum by integrating these critical aspects of human development, thereby aiming to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the processes during pregnancy.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions around the implications of changing school curriculums to include mandated content on fetal development. Notably, there may be contention surrounding the explicit nature of the materials presented, such as high-definition imagery and detailed animations derived from medical science. Some lawmakers and community members may express concerns regarding the appropriateness of such content for school-aged children, arguing it could lead to debates over educational content related to reproductive health. Conversely, supporters may argue that providing scientifically accurate information about human development is crucial for educational purposes.