03/30/2022 By Li Lucy Brandt
The Parental Rights in Education bill which had been dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics was signed into law by Florida governor Ron DeSantis on Monday, Mar. 28. The bill bans classroom instructions about sexual orientation, and it requires schools to inform parents of students’ use of any health services at school.
Nationwide the bill has stirred up conversations and controversy. Many had expressed concerns about the bill being a way of trying to rid classrooms of any LGBTQ+-related debates and discussions. Others have even suggested the bill might put at risk the safety and mental health of students, part of the LGBTQ+ community. The new law will go into effect on June 1, 2022.
Advocates for a Florida LGBTQ+ community group said that if any child, student, or family would experience any harm caused by the bill they would instantly pursue legal actions. They explained that the bill made it seem like sexual orientation was something to be ashamed of. Biden and his administration had denounced the legislation as well.