Bill > HRes1499

This Resolution expresses concern about the increasing issue of book banning and threats to freedom of expression across the United States, affirming the nation's commitment to the First Amendment's protection of free speech and the right to read without government censorship. It highlights that the majority of adults oppose book bans and support educators teaching about important historical and social topics, while also referencing Supreme Court rulings like *Tinker v. Des Moines* and *Board of Education, Island Trees Union Free School District No. 26 v. Pico* that protect students' rights to expression and prevent the removal of library books for partisan reasons. The resolution notes the significant number of book bans reported by organizations like PEN America, often without following established guidelines from groups such as the American Library Association, and emphasizes that such actions harm students, educators, librarians, authors, and the broader community's access to information. It specifically points out that books by and about marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals and people of color, as well as those addressing sensitive topics like death and mental illness, are disproportionately targeted. Therefore, the resolution calls on local governments and school districts to adhere to best practices when handling book challenges and to safeguard students' rights to learn and educators' abilities to teach by ensuring access to a diverse range of books reflecting varied viewpoints and perspectives.