Oklahoma House Bill HB1781

Oklahoma 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/23
• Refer: 2/7/23

Caption

Children; Parents' Bill of Rights; private right of action; Attorney General; investigate; violation; materials; instruction; fine; term; effective date.

Impact

The legislation notably expands parental rights in the educational context, requiring schools to adopt policies promoting parental involvement. Schools must inform parents of their rights, enabling them to opt in or out of various educational programs, including sex education and mental health services. This aligns with a broader trend in several states to increase parental control over school curricula and health services provided to students. The bill provides significant legal recourse for parents, alongside the potential imposition of fines on schools that do not comply with the new requirements.

Summary

House Bill 1781, known as the Parents' Bill of Rights, seeks to strengthen parental control over the upbringing and education of children in Oklahoma. The bill amends sections of the existing law to define the fundamental rights of parents, including the right to direct their children's education and health care. It empowers parents to review educational materials and ensures parental consent is obtained for any mental health assessments performed on minors. The bill establishes a private right of action, allowing parents to sue schools for damages if their children's rights are violated under this law.

Contention

H.B. 1781 has sparked considerable debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that the bill is essential for preserving parental authority and ensuring children do not receive any information that contradicts their family's beliefs regarding morality, gender identity, and sexuality without parental consent. Critics, including various educational associations, have expressed concerns that the law may hinder teachers' ability to provide comprehensive education and support to students, particularly in cases involving mental health and sexual education. They fear that the requirement for explicit parental consent could dissuade educators from discussing important and potentially sensitive topics in curricula.