Wyoming House Bill HB0097

Wyoming 2022 Regular Session

• Failed: 2/17/22

Caption

Ban on teaching and training critical race theory.

Impact

If enacted, HB 0097 would significantly alter the landscape of educational content and teacher training in Wyoming. It would restrict the topics that can be discussed within classrooms, particularly those relating to historical and contemporary issues of race and discrimination. The bill also empowers individuals to seek legal recourse against schools or educators who violate its provisions, establishing a civil action for damages against state agencies or public entities. This introduces a new level of accountability but also raises concerns about potential chilling effects on educators' ability to engage with sensitive subjects.

Summary

House Bill 0097, introduced in Wyoming, aims to ban the teaching and training of concepts associated with critical race theory in public schools from preschool through 12th grade. The bill specifies several prohibited concepts, which include the notion that any race or ethnicity is inherently superior or inferior, or that individuals should be discriminated against based on their racial or ethnic characteristics. The intent behind the bill is to eliminate any form of perceived bias in the educational system and to prevent institutions from using public funds to promote ideas deemed divisive or controversial regarding race and gender.

Contention

The proposed legislation has sparked intense debates among lawmakers and educators, with critics arguing that the bill infringes on academic freedom and undermines comprehensive education. Opponents of the bill contend that it could lead to a sanitized version of history and suppress discussions about systemic inequalities. Supporters believe that the bill promotes fairness and prevents indoctrination in public schools. The bill's provisions also pose potential legal ramifications, as educators may face civil penalties for perceived violations, raising questions about how such laws may be enforced in practice.