Bill > HB2909

This bill mandates that all instruction and materials related to human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases in Missouri schools must be medically and factually accurate, emphasizing abstinence as the preferred choice for unmarried pupils due to its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and diseases, while also detailing the risks of sexually transmitted diseases and providing the latest medical information on conditions like HIV/AIDS and HPV, along with the benefits and side effects of contraception, and discussing the emotional and psychological consequences of adolescent sexual activity and pregnancy, including adoption options. The bill also requires teaching conflict management, personal responsibility, self-esteem, and resistance to negative peer pressure, as well as informing students about financial responsibility for children, statutory rape laws, the dangers of sexual predators (including online ones), and the consequences of inappropriate texting. Furthermore, it mandates instruction on sexual harassment, sexual violence, and consent, defining these terms clearly, and for the 2026-27 school year and beyond, requires a human growth and development discussion that includes a high-definition ultrasound video of fetal development and a specific video illustrating fertilization and fetal development stages. Local school boards will determine policies on contraception referrals and parental notification, and may separate students by gender for instruction, with the specific content of human sexuality instruction determined by the school board, ensuring it is age-appropriate, and schools must notify parents of the curriculum and their right to opt their child out. Additionally, curriculum materials must be available for public inspection, and schools are prohibited from providing or partnering with providers of abortion services for human sexuality instruction. The bill also establishes that for the 2026-27 school year and subsequent years, instruction on human growth and development, focusing on pregnancy and fetal development, must begin no later than third grade, and grants the Missouri Attorney General standing to sue for enforcement of these provisions.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB2909&year=2026&code=R