Bill > HB462

This bill requires public schools and charter schools to adopt policies governing access to materials deemed obscene or harmful to minors. The legislation defines key terms such as "explicit material" (obscene or harmful content), "harmful to minors" (content that predominantly appeals to prurient interests of minors and lacks serious value), and establishes strict guidelines for material availability. Schools are prohibited from allowing obscene or inappropriate materials in school libraries or instructional materials, and must create a policy enabling parents to report such materials. When a parent reports problematic content, the school administration must remove the material for at least 30 calendar days while the school board conducts a review to determine its appropriateness. If the board finds the material obscene or harmful, it must be permanently removed; if deemed appropriate, the material can be returned. The bill also includes potential consequences for non-compliance, such as the state withholding funds from schools that fail to follow the policy. Additionally, schools must annually report to the state department of education any materials permanently removed under these guidelines. The legislation aims to provide a mechanism for parents and school boards to control and limit students' access to content considered inappropriate or potentially damaging.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB462&year=2025&code=R