Committee advances bill to expand high‑school social studies standards on communism

Senate Bill 1133 would add content requirements to high school social studies standards related to comparative politics and the history of communism.

Staff presented the bill as directing the State Board of Education to include age‑ and developmentally appropriate instruction on topics such as: the history of communism in the United States and domestic communist movements; atrocities committed by communist regimes abroad; the spread of communist ideology in Latin America and allied countries; and economic, industrial and political precursors to historical communist revolutions. The bill would allow the State Board of Education to consult with victims’ groups and organizations dedicated to preserving the history of victims of communism.

Sponsor Senator Wendy Rogers said the bill responded to constituent concerns and a broader “hue and cry” about perceived gaps in youth awareness of communism’s influence and history. Committee discussion was brief and the vice chair moved the bill forward. The committee gave SB 1133 a due‑pass recommendation by a recorded vote of 4 ayes, 3 noes, 0 not voting.

Why it matters: The bill would change content expectations for high‑school social studies and authorize the State Board of Education to consult external organizations and victims’ advocates when shaping standards.

Votes at a glance: Committee gave SB 1133 a due‑pass recommendation (vote: 4–3–0).