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Rep. Powers’ bill designates Nov. 7 instruction on victims of communism; subcommittee advances 5–1
Summary
House Bill 20 89 would require LEAs and public charter schools that teach world history and geography to provide at least 45 minutes of instruction on 'Victims of Communism Day' each year; the subcommittee advanced the bill after members raised concerns about additional burden on teachers and confirmed no fiscal note at this stage.
Representative Powers presented House Bill 20 89, which recognizes November 7 each year as 'Victims of Communism Day' and requires LEAs and public charter schools that offer world history and geography to provide at least 45 minutes of instruction on the topic to enrolled high‑school students.
Powers said the requirement is meant to ensure students receive instruction on the meaning of the Declaration of Independence preamble and on the history of victims of communist regimes. He told the committee the provision is intended for historical accuracy rather than political advocacy.
Representative Johnson and other members questioned whether the bill adds to teachers’ workload and whether supplemental materials could satisfy the requirement; legal staff said the bill does not change academic standards or require new guidance, which is why no fiscal note appeared at this stage. The subcommittee voted 5 ayes and 1 no to advance HB2089 to full education.
