2026 - HB 516 - K-12 Instruction on Sexual Orientation

Bill Text:

The bill amends Section 33-6001 of the Idaho Code to enhance parental rights in education, emphasizing the importance of parental involvement and access to information regarding their children's education and well-being. It defines "reasonable academic accommodation" and mandates that school districts and public charter schools develop policies to promote parental participation, including plans for cooperation between parents and teachers, processes for reviewing educational materials, and notification of changes in a child's health status. Additionally, the bill prohibits public schools from adopting policies that would prevent staff from informing parents about their child's mental, emotional, or physical health, and it requires parental consent for certain surveys and health screenings.

Significantly, the bill includes a provision that prohibits classroom instruction on sexual orientation or gender identity from kindergarten through grade 12, ensuring that such topics are not addressed in a manner deemed inappropriate for students. It also establishes a framework for parents to observe school activities and outlines the process for filing complaints if their rights are violated. The bill declares an emergency, making it effective from July 1, 2026.