Tennessee gender-lessons bill approved

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A Tennessee bill requiring school districts to alert parents of any instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity and giving them the ability to opt their child out is heading to Republican Gov. Bill Lee.

The legislation cleared its last hurdle in the GOP-supermajority Legislature with a 64-23 House vote Wednesday. The Senate approved the bill last week.

The bill gives school districts 30 days to alert parents or guardians of upcoming instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity. Families could opt their student out without penalty.

Supporters argued the bill strengthens parental rights, rebuffing concerns from opponents that it could further alienate already-marginalized students.

Democratic Rep. John Ray Clemmons asked the bill sponsor what she is afraid of children being taught.

“I am not afraid,” Republican Rep. Debra Moody responded. “I am simply standing here for the parents, and the parents need to have the decision over what they think is appropriate for their child.”