Bill > HB860

This bill addresses restrictions on removing books and instructional materials in Pennsylvania public schools, establishing a comprehensive framework to prevent unnecessary censorship while providing a structured process for reviewing educational materials. The legislation defines "soft censorship" and prohibits the removal of voluntary inquiry materials (books, magazines, digital materials) for reasons such as partisan disapproval, an author's personal characteristics, or political or religious views. It requires public school entities to establish an educational resource material review committee at each intermediate unit, composed of educators and administrators, to handle complaints about instructional materials. The bill mandates that parents and guardians have access to curriculum information and the right to request alternative materials for their children, but prevents individual complaints from restricting materials for other students. Notably, the bill emphasizes the importance of academic freedom, citing Supreme Court precedent and noting that book removal is only constitutionally permissible if based on genuine educational appropriateness. The legislation was prompted by data from PEN America showing 457 books were challenged or banned in Pennsylvania between July 2021 and July 2022, and it aims to protect students' rights to access diverse, age-appropriate information and ideas. The bill will take effect 60 days after its enactment.

Education

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=860