Monday Briefing: Navigating the National Debate on Parents' Rights in Education
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Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders issued an executive order directing state institutions to ignore the Biden administration's new Title IX rules, which expand sex discrimination definitions to include sexual orientation and gender identity. Sanders criticized these rules as "plainly ridiculous" and harmful to women's sports and private spaces. She emphasized upholding state law and threatened legal action against federal financial penalties. This follows similar actions by Texas Governor Abbott and highlights growing state-level opposition to federal mandates in education. Sanders urges local institutions to reject the revisions and parents to actively engage with their school districts.
At least 15 states have sued the Biden administration over changes to Title IX, which now include gender identity under sex discrimination protections. Critics, such as the Oklahoma State Superintendent, call this move radical and illegal, arguing it unfairly impacts women's sports and safety. The lawsuits highlight the clash between federal overreach and state laws, with states like Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, and others maintaining laws requiring restroom use based on biological sex. Some states also protect teachers and students from penalties for not using preferred pronouns. This issue, escalating to a national crisis, underscores the conflict over parents' rights and federal mandates.
New Hampshire's SB341, which aimed to improve parent-school relationships by requiring teacher disclosures, narrowly failed in the House with a 185-176 vote. Republican Sen. Tom Lang, the bill's sponsor, expressed disappointment, noting the ongoing divisiveness between parents and schools. The bill sought to address concerns of parents feeling disenfranchised by schools.
Call to Action: Support HB1312, which mandates school districts to notify parents about changes in students' mental and emotional well-being and curricula covering sexuality, gender, or sexual education. Contact Senators to advocate for HB1312.
Parents' Rights in Education Training Center Link.
Affiliate Shoutout
Kristen Hanson
Local Affiliate Leader
Hudson, Wisconsin
Bio: Kristen is an affiliate out of Hudson, Wisconsin and she has been fantastic at getting us updates on what is going on in her area regarding parents' rights.
Thank you, Kristen, for your great work and protecting students by standing up for parents' rights!