Bill > HB3311

This bill modifies provisions related to school libraries by defining key terms such as "school librarian," "school library information and technology program," and "standards," with the latter referring to the most current Missouri school library program standards approved by the Missouri Association of School Librarians. It also establishes that school boards must adopt policies for collection development, library programs, and material review, ensuring resources comply with the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and Article I, Section 8 of the Missouri Constitution regarding freedom of speech, and that libraries promote voluntary inquiry and protect against harassment and discrimination. The bill outlines a process for removing library resources, requiring a review committee to evaluate complaints, read challenged materials in their entirety, and make a recommendation within sixty school days, with provisions for appeals to the school board, and prohibits removal for doctrinal or partisan reasons or based on the author's background or viewpoints, while also stating that challenged resources remain available until a final decision is made and that displays and programs cannot be censored for similar reasons. Furthermore, it clarifies that requests for reconsideration of library resources are subject to public scrutiny and that staff cannot be retaliated against for refusing to remove a resource before it's reviewed or for making good-faith decisions in accordance with established standards.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB3311&year=2026&code=R