Bill > H0292

This bill amends Idaho's existing parental rights in education law to expand and clarify parents' and legal guardians' rights in public schools. The bill requires school districts to develop policies that promote parental involvement, including creating plans for parent participation, establishing processes for parents to review learning materials (which must now be published on school websites by October 1 each year), and providing mechanisms for parents to withdraw their children from activities that conflict with their beliefs. The bill strengthens parents' rights to access their children's educational and health records, mandates that schools notify parents about significant changes in their child's health or well-being, and prohibits schools from adopting policies that discourage communication between school personnel and parents. Notably, the bill introduces a new provision that restricts classroom instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity for kindergarten through third-grade students, requiring such instruction to be age-appropriate and in line with state standards. The bill also requires parental consent for certain student surveys, provides parents with the right to observe school activities (with some limitations), establishes a complaint process for parents whose rights are violated, and allows parents to seek legal remedies if school districts do not adequately address their concerns. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and is declared an emergency measure.

Education

Education Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0292/