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Sen. Tammy Nichols introduces RS 32066 to require fetal development visuals in grades 5–12
Summary
Senator Tammy Nichols introduced RS 32066, which would require Idaho public schools to provide ‘‘accurate, science‑based’’ instruction showing stages of fetal development, potentially including ultrasound or computer animation, in grades 5 through 12. The committee voted to print the request for a full hearing.
Senator Tammy Nichols, R‑District 10, introduced RS 32066 to the Senate Education Committee, saying the legislation would require Idaho public schools to include instruction that visually demonstrates human development from fertilization to birth in courses that cover human biology, health or instruction on contraception and sexually transmitted infections. "Basically, this legislation provides the Idaho students in grades 5 through 12 receive accurate science based instruction on human growth and development," Nichols said.
Nichols described the materials that could be used as including high‑definition ultrasound video or computer‑generated animation "showing key milestones in fetal growth." She said the instruction is intended to be science‑based and to empower students with knowledge about human biology; she also told the committee the bill would not require new funding and would use existing or free resources.
Committee members raised concerns about curricular authority and age‑appropriateness. Senator Ward Engelking said the proposal may be outside the established curriculum standards and asked how it would align with the state’s standards review process: "We have, standards, curriculum standards that we put in place, and they're reviewed. ... This seems to be outside those standards." Engelking also questioned whether the level of description would be appropriate for middle school grades. Nichols said the department and a full hearing would be an appropriate place to work through alignment and grade‑level criteria.
Committee action: Senator Scott Carlson moved to print RS 32066 for a full hearing; the motion was seconded and the committee voted in favor by voice vote.
Next steps: Senator Nichols said she would provide a video and work with staff on scheduling a full hearing. The bill text and any legislative committee amendments will be developed at the printed hearing.
