Thirteen Republicans in Iowa’s House have introduced House File 2201, which will require “Iowa school districts to notify parents when curriculum or classroom activities include content that relates to sexual orientation or gender identity.”
Supporters said the measure’s opt-out is much like current law, which allows parents to opt their children out of human growth and development instruction. Opponents said the definitions in the bill are vague and could discourage LGBTQ-focused instruction or marginalize students.
Rep. Sandy Salmon, R-Janesville, one of the bill’s co-sponsors, said the expanded opt-out is needed because parents have a variety of views on sexual orientation and gender identity.
“Not all students, parents or families agree with the viewpoint held by many schools regarding sexual orientation or gender identity issues,” she said Monday. “And they should be allowed to opt out of instruction that contains that.”
Des Moines Register:
