Senators say HB 1296 to clarify conflicts from 'parents' bill of rights' will be heard; multiple vehicles remain in play

Speaker 3 (questioner) noted the late-night debate over HB 1296 and said it was aimed "to undo much of what the parents' bill of rights did," and that the session drew large live online audiences. Speaker 2 said the Senate version seeks to fix conflicts and make clear how schools should operate and that the proposal also gathers students' rights into statute while protecting educators from retaliation: "we also did that with students' rights ... made it clear that educators are protected and can't be retaliated against for following the law of this state."

Speaker 1 (state senator, unnamed in the transcript) said the Senate intends to hear the Senate bill and also intends to hear HB 1296. She described several possible outcomes: the House could pass its bill, the Senate could pass its version, the Legislature could pass HB 1296 with all language, or either bill could be amended and returned for further action. "There are a lot of possible outcomes," she said, and added the issue will be a significant focus over the coming weeks as members negotiate specific policy 'dials' such as exemption periods and the percentage cap when applicable.

Speakers reported intense public attention to the debate and said many amendments were offered and most were rejected; they also said some amendments were accepted. The press exchange included questions about whether leaders had consulted the governor; Speaker 1 declined to speak for him but said her impression was the governor supports correcting statutory conflicts created by the initiative.

What happens next: leaders said they will continue discussions between the House and Senate on which vehicle to pursue and will attempt to win additional votes within the Senate Democratic caucus. The press conference did not record a formal floor vote on HB 1296; speakers described intentions to hear the bills in committee and to continue negotiations.