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IA SF235
IA SF235A bill for an act relating to obscenity exemptions for public libraries and educational institutions.
summary
Introduced
02/10/2025
02/10/2025
In Committee
02/10/2025
02/10/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
91st General Assembly
Bill Summary
This bill repeals Code section 728.7, which relates to obscenity exemptions for public libraries and educational institutions. Code section 728.7 currently provides that nothing in Code chapter 728 (obscenity) prohibits the use of appropriate material for educational purposes in any accredited school, any public library, or in any educational program in which a minor is participating. Code section 728.7 further provides that Code chapter 728 does not prohibit the attendance of minors at an exhibition or display of art works or the use of any materials in any public library. Code section 728.1 defines “obscene material”, which includes material the average person, taking the material as a whole and applying contemporary community standards with respect to what is suitable material for minors, would find appeals to the prurient interest and is patently offensive; and the material, taken as a whole, lacks serious literary, scientific, political, or artistic value.
AI Summary
This bill proposes to repeal Section 728.7 of the Iowa Code, which currently provides important legal protections for public libraries, educational institutions, and schools regarding obscenity regulations. Under the existing law, these institutions were exempt from obscenity restrictions when using materials for educational purposes or displaying art works, and minors were permitted to attend such exhibitions. By repealing this section, the bill would remove these specific legal protections, potentially leaving public libraries, schools, and educational programs more vulnerable to potential legal challenges regarding the use of materials that might be considered obscene under contemporary community standards. The repeal could significantly impact how educational institutions and libraries select and display materials, potentially creating a more restrictive environment for educational content and artistic expression. Without the current exemption, these institutions might need to be more cautious about the materials they provide or exhibit, especially those involving minors.
Committee Categories
Education
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Subcommittee recommends passage. (on 02/25/2025)
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://www.legis.iowa.gov/legislation/BillBook?ga=91&ba=SF235 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.iowa.gov/docs/publications/LGI/91/attachments/SF235.html |
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