New Bill Blocks Abortion Providers from Public School Classrooms

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The Utah House of Representatives has approved legislation that would prohibit abortion providers from offering health-related instruction in public schools.

House Bill 233, titled School Curriculum Amendments, was passed in a 51-14-10 vote on Friday. If the bill moves through the Senate and is signed into law, it will bar any organization or individual affiliated with elective abortion services from participating in health education in state-funded schools. Additionally, the bill would prevent these groups from distributing educational materials on health-related topics.

Violations of the proposed law would result in financial penalties, with state funds being withheld from school districts that allow prohibited organizations to participate.

Lawmakers Debate the Bill’s Necessity

Rep. Nicholeen Peck (R-Tooele), the bill’s sponsor, argued that allowing abortion providers to teach in schools poses a conflict of interest.

“I see this as a matter of trust,” Peck said during the House floor debate. “Our laws already state that we do not advocate for abortion, and while these organizations may not explicitly promote it, their presence in the classroom places them in a trusted position that could influence students.”

During discussions, Rep. Andrew Stoddard (D-Salt Lake) proposed an amendment to establish a vetting process for organizations that wish to provide instruction. However, this amendment was ultimately rejected.

Several lawmakers voiced opposition to the bill, asserting that it was unnecessary since educators must already adhere to state-approved curricula. Rep. Carol Moss (D-Salt Lake) emphasized that volunteers providing health instruction follow strict guidelines and do not push an agenda.

“These are unpaid volunteers who simply provide educational support within the existing curriculum,” Moss stated. “There’s no advocacy involved.”

House Democrats Oppose Bill

As the debate concluded, Peck reiterated her stance that the bill is about ensuring students receive education free from outside influence.

“Our children should not be placed in a learning environment where they are subtly marketed to by organizations that may seek their financial support in the future,” Peck said.

Following the bill’s passage, Utah’s House Democrats released a statement opposing the measure.

“We trust the Utah State Board of Education to make informed decisions that prioritize students’ well-being,” the statement read. “The legislature should not be interfering in families’ educational choices.”

H.B. 233 now heads to the Senate, where it must clear committee review and a full floor vote before reaching the governor’s desk for approval or veto.

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