Committee prints bill to require fetal development instruction in grades 5–12

The Senate Education Committee voted to print RS 32066, a bill introduced by Senator Tammy Nichols that would require Idaho public schools to provide “accurate science based instruction on human growth and development” for students in grades 5 through 12.

Senator Nichols told the committee RS 32066 would “include educational content visually demonstrating the stages of human life from fertilization to birth,” which could include “a high definition ultrasound video or computer generated animation showing key milestones in fetal growth.” She said the instruction would be integrated into biology, health and other relevant courses and would be shown when classes discuss contraception or sexually transmitted infections.

Nichols said the bill is intended to “empower” students with knowledge about their bodies and that it would require no new funding because schools could use existing or free resources. The sponsor also asked that the RS be printed to allow a full hearing and offered to show a demonstration video if the committee schedules the item.

Committee members raised concerns during the discussion. Senator Ward Engelking said the proposed content appears to lie outside the established curriculum standards and that appropriateness across grade levels could be an issue. Engelking asked for more detail at a full hearing; Nichols said she would provide follow-up and that medical professionals typically assist districts in delivering similar curriculum.

Senator Carlson moved to send RS 32066 to print; the motion was seconded and approved by voice vote. The committee chair said the sponsor and staff will work to schedule a full hearing.