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Committee introduces RS 32554 to restrict instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation across K–12
Summary
Representative Dale Hawkins introduced RS 32554, expanding a prior draft to cover K–12 instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation. Sponsors said the measure concerns "thought" rather than biology; committee members asked for specific definitions and raised concerns about classroom impacts on subjects beyond sex education.
Representative Dale Hawkins reintroduced RS 32554 and told the committee he had expanded language to cover K–12 after parents objected to limiting restrictions to third grade. Hawkins said the measure addresses “gender identity and sexual orientation” as topics of thought and belief rather than biological or physiological instruction.
Lawmakers asked for clearer definitions before a hearing. Representative Church asked whether historical instruction (for example, teaching about Harvey Milk) would be affected; Hawkins replied the draft “is dealing with instruction from student to students from their educators on these two subjects, period.” Representative Mathias asked how the bill would affect high-school biology instruction about biological reasons for sexual orientation; Hawkins said he would get answers for the hearing. Representative Ehart and others urged that definitions for “gender identity” and “sexual orientation” be specified in the bill to avoid classroom confusion.
Representative Hart asked whether the restriction would apply across all subjects and gave hypothetical examples; Hawkins replied affirmatively when pressed, saying the draft “includes all or any education” and that the sponsor intended it to apply broadly.
The committee voted to introduce RS 32554. The record shows one recorded nay on the introduction vote. Members indicated they expect definitional clarifications and practical examples at the hearing to determine how the restriction would interact with existing academic standards.
