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Senate OKs bill allowing opt-out of LGBT curriculum

state capitol
Posted at 10:37 PM, Apr 05, 2021
and last updated 2021-04-05 23:37:46-04

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Tennessee’s Republican-dominant Senate has advanced legislation that would require school districts to alert parents of any instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity.

The bill also allows parents or guardians to opt their students out of such instruction.

Backers of the bill argued Monday that the measure strengthens parental rights, but critics counter it could further alienate students already marginalized. After clearing the Senate, the bill must now pass the GOP-controlled House.

Gov. Bill Lee has not weighed publicly whether he supports the measure.