Arizona bill limits sex ed, discussion of sexual orientation in schools
By Jonathan J. Cooper
PHOENIX (AP) - Arizona lawmakers are considering banning sex education before fifth grade and requiring written parental permission before discussing sexuality or gender identity in any classes.
Critics said the measure would have far reaching consequences, muzzle teachers and isolate lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender students.
"It is a repressive bill that threatens to take us back before the 1950s," said Sen. Victoria Steele, a Democrat from Tucson.
Sen. Nancy Barto, a Phoenix Republican who introduced the bill, said it’s designed to give parents more of a voice in what their children are hearing in school.