Summary
Requires public schools to get a parent's permission before changing a student's gender identity, pronouns, or name on school records or for bathrooms.
What problem does this solve?
Some schools may change a student's gender information without notifying parents, which can conflict with parental rights. This bill requires schools to get parental consent first, ensuring parents are involved in these important decisions.
What does this bill do?
Parental consent for gender identity changes
Requires public elementary and middle schools to get a parent's permission before changing a student's gender markers, pronouns, or preferred name on any school document.
Parental consent for facility access
Requires schools to get parental consent before changing a student's access to sex-based accommodations like bathrooms or locker rooms.
Ties requirements to federal funding
Makes these rules a condition for public elementary and middle schools to receive money under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965.
Who does this affect?
- Transgender and gender non-conforming students
- Parents of elementary and middle school students
- Public school administrators and staff
What is the real world impact?
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Could create unsafe situations for students
Critics argue this could force schools to out transgender students to unsupportive parents, potentially putting them in a harmful home environment. It may also prevent students from expressing their identity in a safe school setting.
When does this start?
The requirements would apply to schools as a condition for receiving federal education funds.