Bill > S2328

This bill addresses free expression and library materials in Massachusetts public and school libraries by establishing several key protections and guidelines. The legislation affirms that attempts to ban or restrict access to books undermines public good and academic growth, and that librarians should be protected from personal attacks. It requires school libraries to establish written policies for selecting library materials based on professional standards, ensuring that materials are age-appropriate and serve educational purposes. The bill mandates that library materials cannot be removed or restricted based on personal, political, or doctrinal views, and provides a formal process for addressing book challenges that includes keeping challenged materials available during review. Librarians are protected from professional retaliation when selecting materials in good faith, and the bill requires the board of library commissioners to submit an annual report detailing book challenges across the commonwealth. Additionally, the bill makes some technical amendments to existing laws, such as replacing gendered language with gender-neutral terms and updating references in various sections of library-related statutes. The overall intent is to safeguard intellectual freedom, protect librarians' professional discretion, and ensure transparent and fair processes for managing library collections.

Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2328