Bill > A3446

This bill establishes the "Freedom to Read Act," which aims to protect intellectual freedom and access to library materials in New Jersey's public school and public libraries. The bill recognizes reading as a constitutionally protected right and affirms that students do not lose their freedom of expression at school. It requires school boards and public library governing bodies to develop policies that prevent censorship and protect library staff from harassment. Key provisions include establishing a formal review process for challenging library materials, requiring that challenged materials remain available during review, and mandating that materials cannot be removed solely because of their viewpoint or because someone finds the content offensive. The bill defines "diverse and inclusive material" as content that reflects protected classes, is created by authors from those classes, or addresses contemporary issues. It also provides immunity for library staff members who are acting in good faith when curating and maintaining library collections. The review process involves a committee with diverse representation, including educators, administrators, parents, and potentially students, who will evaluate challenged materials and make recommendations to the governing body. The bill emphasizes that library staff are professionally trained to curate collections that meet the broad and varied interests of their communities, and seeks to protect them from external pressures that might compromise intellectual freedom.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2024/A3446