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Bill > HB1045


MS HB1045

MS HB1045
Libraries; regulate the material that is curated for children and younger teens.


summary

Introduced
01/16/2023
In Committee
01/16/2023
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
02/09/2023

Introduced Session

2023 Regular Session

Bill Summary

An Act To Create A New Section Of Law To Provide That Library Collections, Events, Presentations And Displays Aimed At The Special Needs And Interests Of Children And Young Teenagers Shall Not Be Allowed To Include Materials Containing Certain Information; To Provide That A Citizen Of This State Whose Child Is Affected By A Violation Of This Act May File Suit For Declarative And Injunctive Relief, Including All Reasonable Attorney's Fees And Costs Incurred By The Party Bringing The Suit In The Circuit Court Which Shall Have Jurisdiction Over The Library Where The Violation Of This Act Occurs; To Provide That The Attorney General's Office Shall Give The Library The Opportunity To Cure The Violation Before A Suit Is Brought; To Provide That The State Board Of Education And The Mississippi Library Commission, In Consultation With The Attorney General's Office, Shall Provide Training To The Libraries; To Amend Section 37-1-3, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Amend The Powers And Duties Of The State Board Of Education To Comply With The Provisions Of This Act; To Amend Section 97-29-107, Mississippi Code Of 1972, To Conform; To Bring Forward Section 39-3-357, Mississippi Code Of 1972, For The Purpose Of Possible Amendment; And For Related Purposes.

AI Summary

This bill establishes a Commission on Age Appropriate Literacy to regulate the materials included in public library collections, events, presentations, and displays aimed at children under the age of 15. The commission will compile a list of "obscene" materials that libraries are prohibited from including, based on a definition that focuses on content appealing to "prurient interest" and lacking serious value. The bill also allows citizens to petition the commission to add materials to the prohibited list and to sue libraries for violations, with the state providing guidance and training to libraries on compliance. The bill amends existing laws to give the State Board of Education and Mississippi Library Commission a role in this process.

Committee Categories

Justice

Sponsors (4)

Last Action

Died On Calendar (on 02/09/2023)

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