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Utah Senate approves bill tightening review of 'sensitive' school library materials after extended debate
Summary
The Senate passed House Bill 3 74, which directs school systems to use existing Utah criminal-code definitions when reviewing 'sensitive' library materials, requires State Board guidance with the Attorney General, and sets a parent-inclusive review process. Senators debated whether the measure would censor curriculum or improve transparency; the bill will return to the House.
Senators passed House Bill 3 74 after extended debate about whether it creates a transparent review process for library books or amounts to de facto censorship.
Sponsor Senator Wyler said the bill applies criminal-code definitions for material harmful to minors to school library holdings, exempts approved health curriculum and medical courses, and requires the State Board of Education to consult with the Attorney General and to provide guidance and training to schools. "This is not about banning books. It's about a good process," Wyler said on the floor.
The measure requires local education agencies to include parents "who are reflective of the members of the community" on review panels and directs reporting to the education interim committee by the November interim meeting on rules and practices…
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