Index
Florida Parental Rights in Education
Summary
Often referred to by critics as the 'Don't Say Gay' bill, this law severely restricts how sexual orientation and gender identity can be taught or discussed in Florida public schools.
Rights & Rules
- 01.Classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity is completely banned in Kindergarten through 3rd grade.
- 02.For grades 4 through 12, such instruction is banned unless it is required by the state's academic standards or health curriculum (which parents can opt their children out of).
- 03.Schools MUST immediately notify parents of any change in a student's 'mental, emotional, or physical health' (which has been interpreted to include a student asking to use different pronouns).
- 04.Schools cannot withhold information from parents about their child's gender identity unless they have a documented reason to believe doing so will result in abuse or neglect.
Penalties
- 01.Parents can sue the school district for damages if they believe a teacher or the curriculum violated these rules.
- 02.Teachers who violate the law can face termination and the loss of their state teaching license.
Verified Citations
Florida Statutes Section 1001.42(8)(c)
Source"Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards."