Bill > HB07014

This bill requires local and regional school boards to establish a comprehensive policy for evaluating library materials that are subject to removal or restricted access, with the policy to be implemented by January 1, 2026. The bill defines key terms such as "library material," "remove," and "restrict access," and establishes a process for handling "qualified complaints" from students, parents, or guardians who want to challenge library materials. The policy must include creating a complaint form, developing a review process, and forming a library material review committee composed of school administrators, librarians, teachers, and district leadership. Critically, the bill prohibits removing or restricting library materials based on partisan content, an author's personal characteristics, board members' personal discomfort, or the material's perspective on current events or human sexuality. The review committee must thoroughly evaluate any challenged materials and provide a public explanation for any final decision to remove or restrict access. The policy must be reviewed and updated at least every five years, and any final decisions about library materials must be posted on the school board's website. The bill aims to protect intellectual freedom and prevent arbitrary censorship of school library materials, while still providing a structured process for addressing community concerns about library content.

Education

Education Committee (J)

https://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/cgabillstatus/cgabillstatus.asp?selBillType=Bill&bill_num=HB07014&which_year=2025