Bill > HJR440

This joint resolution directs the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Commission (JLARC), a legislative oversight agency, to conduct a comprehensive study on book removals from public school libraries between July 1, 2020, and December 31, 2024. The study will involve surveying all 135 Virginia school divisions to gather detailed information about book removals, including the titles and reasons for removal, whether the removals were recommended by "challenge committees" (groups of parents and librarians) or directed by school administrators, and the involvement of school librarians in the process. JLARC will also investigate which school divisions have established committees to review library book content, examine the resources available to support school administrators in making book removal decisions, and determine whether existing policies like § 22.1-16.8 (which requires parental notification about sexually explicit instructional materials) were used to justify removals. The resolution aims to understand the variations in book removal procedures across Virginia's school divisions and assess potential impacts on students' learning and intellectual exploration. JLARC is required to complete its study by August 1, 2025, and submit an executive summary of its findings to the Division of Legislative Automated Systems by October 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HJ440