Bill > SB238

This bill establishes new policies for public and school libraries regarding access to library materials and provides affirmative defenses for certain offenses when an individual is acting in their official capacity as an employee of a school, museum, or public library. Specifically, it amends existing laws to allow librarians to curate materials based on policies approved by governing bodies, and mandates the creation of model policies by the commissioner that promote free expression, prohibit censorship based on the origin or views expressed in materials, and establish procedures for reviewing and reconsidering library materials. The bill defines "censor" as blocking library material based on disagreement with its ideas or sexual content without meeting specific legal standards for obscenity, and outlines procedures for individuals to request reconsideration of materials, ensuring that challenged items remain available during the review process. It also creates a private right of action for individuals, students, parents, authors, booksellers, and publishers to sue government entities for censoring library materials or retaliating against employees who refuse to censor them, and grants immunity to library employees acting in good faith.

Education

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB238