Florida Republicans Push to Expand ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Law, Sparking Controversy Over LGBTQ Rights and Parental Rights

Florida Republicans have introduced three bills to expand upon the state’s “Don’t Say Gay” law, which was enacted by Gov. Ron DeSantis in 2020. The law prohibits “classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity” in kindergarten through third grade “or in a manner that is not age appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”

The three bills, H.B. 1223, H.B. 1069, and H.B. 1320, all take aim at different aspects of gender and sexuality education in public schools. H.B. 1223 would expand the “Don’t Say Gay” law to include all grades, while H.B. 1069 would require schools to notify parents of any instruction related to gender or sexuality. H.B. 1320 would allow parents to opt their children out of any instruction related to gender or sexuality.

The Parental Rights in Education bill, which was signed into law by Gov. DeSantis, cites the “fundamental right of parents to make decisions regarding upbringing and control of their children.” Critics of the bill have argued that it restricts the ability of teachers to provide students with accurate information about gender and sexuality.

The bills have been met with criticism from LGBTQ advocacy groups, who argue that the bills are an attempt to restrict the rights of LGBTQ students. Supporters of the bills have argued that they are necessary to protect the rights of parents to make decisions about their children’s education.

The bills are currently being considered by the Florida Legislature and are expected to be voted on during the 2023 session. It remains to be seen whether the bills will pass or be rejected.