summary
Introduced
12/14/2023
12/14/2023
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
Relative to the right of students to freedom of expression in public schools. Education.
AI Summary
This bill aims to protect the right of students to freedom of expression in public schools in Massachusetts. It amends the state's education laws to clarify that students have the right to receive information determined to be appropriate for inclusion in school libraries by licensed school library teachers or other responsible school officials. The bill also establishes a process for reviewing and challenging decisions to remove materials from school libraries, with the school committee having the final authority on such decisions. Additionally, the bill requires public schools to adopt a written policy for the selection and use of 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. The bill also outlines potential penalties, such as fines or imprisonment, for librarians who do not comply with these requirements.
Committee Categories
Business and Industry, Education
Sponsors (15)
John Moran (D)*,
James Arena-Derosa (D),
Jenny Armini (D),
Michelle Ciccolo (D),
Tricia Farley-Bouvier (D),
Carmine Gentile (D),
Natalie Higgins (D),
David LeBoeuf (D),
Jack Lewis (D),
David Linsky (D),
Christopher Markey (D),
Sam Montaño (D),
Jake Oliveira (D),
Lindsay Sabadosa (D),
Adam Scanlon (D),
Last Action
Accompanied a new draft, see S2839 (on 07/02/2024)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H4229 |
| BillText | https://malegislature.gov/Bills/193/H4229.pdf |
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