summary
Introduced
07/03/2023
07/03/2023
In Committee
03/25/2024
03/25/2024
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
12/31/2024
12/31/2024
Introduced Session
193rd General Court
Bill Summary
For legislation relative to free expression. Education.
AI Summary
This bill amends existing laws in Massachusetts to protect free expression and the selection of materials for school libraries. It allows students to receive information deemed appropriate by licensed school librarians or other designated school officials, and establishes a process for reviewing challenges to library materials, which cannot be removed without clear and convincing evidence that the materials are devoid of educational, literary, artistic, or social value or are not age-appropriate. The bill also requires public libraries to adopt a written policy for selecting and using library materials that incorporates the American Library Association's Library Bill of Rights and prohibits the selection, proscription, or removal of materials due to doctrinal or partisan disapproval. Additionally, the bill provides for potential disciplinary actions, including fines or imprisonment, for librarians who are dismissed or disciplined for following these policies.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry, Education
Sponsors (18)
Julian Cyr (D)*,
James Arena-Derosa (D),
Mike Barrett (D),
Jo Comerford (D),
Brendan Crighton (D),
Sal DiDomenico (D),
Carmine Gentile (D),
Natalie Higgins (D),
Pat Jehlen (D),
Robyn Kennedy (D),
Jason Lewis (D),
David Linsky (D),
Mike Moore (D),
John Moran (D),
Jake Oliveira (D),
Pavel Payano (D),
Becca Rausch (D),
Adam Scanlon (D),
Last Action
Accompanied a new draft, see S2839 (on 07/02/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S2528 |
| BillText | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/S2528.pdf |
Loading...