Bars Federal Funds for Sexually Explicit Materials
Protecting Students from Sexually Explicit Materials Act
Would bar schools from using federal education funds on sexually explicit instructional materials for students in kindergarten through grade 12. Schools getting federal funds would also have to let parents inspect instructional materials.
Supporters say
Parent groups would likely say schools should not use public money for sexually explicit materials. They would also say parents should be able to see what children read.
Critics say
Some teachers and library groups would likely say the rule is vague about what counts as explicit. They may worry it could limit books and lessons schools already use.
Why it matters
Schools that break the rule could lose federal education money for the materials involved. Parents would get a formal way to review what their children are taught.
What it does
- Bars use of federal education funds to buy or provide sexually explicit materials in grades K-12
- Defines explicit content as graphic depictions of sexual acts, excluding age-appropriate health and biology lessons
- Requires schools getting federal funds to let parents inspect instructional materials
- Bars the Education Secretary from setting a national curriculum or overriding state or local standards
Status
Latest action (2026-10-22): Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.