SB 418 - This act modifies provisions relating to instruction in human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases. This act requires that any course materials and instruction relating to human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases be based on peer reviewed projects that have been demonstrated to influence healthy behavior and be age appropriate.
This act repeals a provision requiring that course materials and instruction present abstinence as the preferred choice in relation to all sexual activity for unmarried pupils. Instead, course materials and instruction must present abstinence as the preferred choice in relation to all sexual activity as the only sure way to avoid pregnancy or sexually transmitted infections.
The phrase "sexually transmitted diseases" is changed to "sexually transmitted infections."
This act repeals the option for course materials and instruction to include either the possible side effects and health benefits of contraception or present students with information on contraceptives and pregnancy consistent with federal abstinence education law. Instead, course materials and instruction must present students with the latest medically factual information about the health benefits and side effects of all contraceptives and barrier methods, as described in the act.
This act repeals the requirement that course materials and instruction include a discussion of the possible emotional and psychological consequences of certain sexual activity and consequences of adolescent pregnancy and advantages of adoption. Instead, the course materials and instruction must provide information about the vaccine for human papilloma virus; encourage family communication about sexuality; help young people gain knowledge about the changes of adolescence and develop skills to make responsible decisions, as described in the act; help pupils develop skills to make healthy decisions about sexuality and relationships; teach pupils about the dangers of sexual predators, including when using certain electronic communication methods, as described in the act. Pupils must be taught how to behave responsibly and remain safe on the internet.
Each district and charter school must make the names and affiliations of presenters used in human sexuality instruction available for public inspection.
This act repeals the prohibition on school districts and charter schools from providing abortion services or permitting a person or entity that is a provider of abortion services from offering, sponsoring, or furnishing course materials or instruction relating to human sexuality or sexually transmitted diseases.
This act is substantially similar to HB 670 (2015), HB 353 (2015), and a provision in HB 501 (2015).
MICHAEL RUFF