Senate committee hears 'Freedom to Read' bill to bar discriminatory book removals

Senate Committee on Education Chair Lou Frederick opened a public hearing on March 3, 2025 for Senate Bill 1098, the "Freedom to Read" measure intended to prohibit discrimination as a basis for limiting access to school library and instructional materials and to create a Department of Education position to support school librarians facing challenges.

Sponsor testimony and proponents said the bill would make explicit that removing or restricting a book because of the identities depicted or the identity of the author—race, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability or other protected characteristics—constitutes unlawful discrimination under state education law. Supporters also asked the committee to provide ODE with a dedicated staff position to help districts and library staff navigate challenges.

"This bill supports the freedom to read," Senator Lou Frederick said in opening remarks, arguing that school…