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Bill > H1539


FL H1539

Materials Harmful to Minors


summary

Introduced
02/28/2025
In Committee
04/24/2025
Crossed Over
04/24/2025
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

Potential new amendment
2025 Regular Session

Bill Summary

An act relating to materials harmful to minors; amending s. 1006.28, F.S.; defining the term "harmful to minors"; revising the list of materials used in a classroom which are subject to the objection process by parents or residents; reenacting s. 1014.05(1)(c), F.S., relating to school district notifications on parental rights, to incorporate the amendment made to s. 1006.28, F.S., in a reference thereto; providing an effective date.

AI Summary

This bill modifies Florida law regarding instructional materials in schools by introducing a new definition of "harmful to minors" and expanding parents' and residents' rights to object to educational materials. The bill defines "harmful to minors" as any depiction of nudity, sexual conduct, or sexual excitement that predominantly appeals to prurient interest and is patently offensive to prevailing community standards for minors. It requires school districts to establish clear, accessible processes for parents or county residents to challenge instructional materials, including forms to submit objections and mandatory public hearings. Materials deemed pornographic, harmful to minors, or inappropriate for students' age or comprehension level must be removed within five school days of an objection. The bill also empowers parents to request a special magistrate if they disagree with a school district's decision about contested materials, and requires the State Board of Education to monitor district compliance through audits, potentially withholding state funds for non-compliance. Additionally, the bill allows parents to object to materials based on moral, religious, or ethical concerns, giving them greater control over the educational content their children are exposed to in school.

Committee Categories

Education

Sponsors (15)

Other Sponsors (2)

Education & Employment Committee (H), Education Administration Subcommittee (H)

Last Action

Indefinitely postponed and withdrawn from consideration (on 05/03/2025)

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