Florida parents may get a bigger say over school textbooks

Florida could make it easier for parents and residents to challenge school textbooks and school library books under a bill passed by the state Legislature.

The Senate on Friday narrowly approved the measure by a 19-17 vote. It now heads to the desk of Gov. Rick Scott.

The legislation (HB 989) would allow parents and residents to review instructional materials and then challenge them as inappropriate before a hearing officer.

Critics of the bill contend that it could lead to schools removing books that discuss topics such as climate change or evolution.

But Rep. Byron Donalds, a Naples Republican sponsoring the bill, has maintained the legislation is about giving people an opportunity to raise questions about textbooks. He has noted that local school districts would still have the final say.

Republished with permission of The Associated Press.