Critics argue the legislation marginalises LGBT+ communities and poses risks to vulnerable students.

Attempts to amend or block the controversial “Parental Rights in Education” bill in Florida, often dubbed the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, were rejected by Republican legislators. This proposed law seeks to restrict “classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity” in schools.

Key Provisions and Opposition
The bill prohibits discussions on sexual orientation or gender identity in primary grades or in ways deemed “not age-appropriate.” Advocates of the bill, led by Republican State Rep Joe Harding, assert that it empowers parents by giving them greater involvement in education-related issues.

However, critics argue the measure is homophobic and transphobic. Democratic State Rep Carlos Guillermo Smith, Florida’s first openly LGBT+ Latino legislator, criticised the proposal as sending a message to LGBT+ individuals that “they are not wanted or seen.” Rep Michele Rayner-Goolsby added, “This legislation diminishes our humanity and isolates LGBT+ families.”

Failed Amendments and Concerns
Efforts to remove references to “sexual orientation or gender identity” from the bill were unsuccessful. Proposed amendments, including collaboration with LGBT+ advocacy groups and legal protections for students, were also voted down.

Opponents have raised concerns about the law’s ambiguity, asking who determines age-appropriateness and how it might impact LGBT+ students seeking support at school. They also warned that the bill could expose vulnerable children to harm, particularly those from unaccepting households.

LGBT+ Advocacy and Mental Health Risks
Equality Florida, an LGBT+ advocacy group, described the legislation as a tool to stigmatise and isolate LGBT+ individuals while creating fear among educators. A statement highlighted that the existence of LGBT+ students and parents “should not be treated as a taboo topic.”

Research underscores the potential harm. A Trevor Project report revealed that LGBT+ youth exposed to inclusive education were 23% less likely to attempt suicide. Conversely, LGBT+ young people remain significantly more at risk of self-harm than their peers, with an alarming suicide attempt occurring every 45 seconds among those aged 13 to 24 in the US.

Calls for Reconsideration
Democratic lawmakers and advocacy groups have urged Florida legislators to abandon the bill. Critics, including Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz, warned of its isolating effects, stating, “If passed, this law will deepen the struggles of vulnerable LGBT+ children, with devastating consequences.”

The bill is one of numerous proposals across the US targeting LGBT+ communities, reflecting what some see as a broader effort to politicise and control classroom discourse on gender and sexuality.