Florida's 'Don't Say Gay' Law

SOURCE npr.org
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signs the Parental Rights in Education bill, also known as the 'Don't Say Gay' bill, but a settlement clarifies that students and teachers can discuss sexual orientation and gender identity in Florida classrooms as long as it's not part of instruction. The law doesn't prohibit discussing LGBTQ+ people, anti-bullying rules based on sexual orientation and gender identity, or Gay-Straight Alliance groups.

Key Points

  • Settlement allows discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in Florida classrooms
  • Law doesn't prohibit discussing LGBTQ+ people or anti-bullying rules
  • Parental Rights in Education Act remains intact

Pros

  • Protection of children from being taught inappropriate material
  • Parents are encouraged to discuss these subjects with their children

Cons

  • Created confusion and chilling effect in classrooms
  • Some teachers felt restricted in mentioning or displaying LGBTQ+ topics