Bill > AB600

This bill proposes to add a new section to California's Education Code that allows parents and guardians to opt their children out of any school instruction, presentation, or survey involving "transgender concepts." The bill defines transgender concepts broadly, including topics like gender identity, gender expression, sex as a social construct, and gender-affirming healthcare. Parents can submit a written request to have their child excused from any class, lesson, presentation, assembly, or anonymous survey that discusses these topics, and schools must provide an alternative educational activity during those times. Importantly, schools cannot penalize or discipline students who are excused from such activities. The bill also provides a private right of action, meaning parents can sue a school district if they believe their rights under this law have been violated, with the potential to receive damages and attorney's fees. The bill frames its provisions as protecting parental rights in education, citing Supreme Court precedents about parents' fundamental rights to direct their children's upbringing and education. The legislation reflects concerns about schools teaching what some parents consider controversial gender-related concepts, and aims to give parents more control over their children's exposure to such instruction.

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260AB600