Bill > SRes443

This resolution expresses deep concern about the growing trend of book banning in the United States, highlighting the significant impact on freedom of expression and education. The resolution notes that between July 2024 and June 2025, PEN America documented 6,870 instances of book banning affecting 3,751 unique titles and 2,589 authors, with a disproportionate number of targeted books involving LGBTQ+ themes, characters of color, and discussions of race, history, and social issues. The resolution emphasizes that most voters oppose book bans, support comprehensive education about civil rights and diverse experiences, and believe schools select appropriate reading materials. It references key Supreme Court decisions protecting students' free speech and condemns book removal on partisan grounds, arguing that such censorship undermines democratic principles, violates students' rights to access diverse perspectives, and creates a chilling effect on educators and librarians. The resolution calls on local governments and school districts to follow best practices for book challenges, protect students' learning rights, and ensure access to a wide range of viewpoints, while also demanding the return of books removed from Department of Defense schools and the repeal of executive orders that restrict educational content.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-resolution/443/all-info