US HR 2616
The national book ban bill has popped up in another form, HR 2616, and this one is moving quickly. Like HR 7661 (the previous national book ban bill, which has stalled but which we continue to track), Section II of this bill similarly restricts Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) funds if they would be used to “teach or advance gender-ideology.” We believe “advance” would be applied to books, and the bill defines “gender ideology” only by reference to an executive order that does not have the force of law. Restricting ESEA funds would disproportionately impact schools with the greatest financial need and stunt school book purchases, which in turn could have a chilling effect on the whole book market.
ABA submitted a memo in opposition in anticipation of a floor vote today. Depending on the outcome of today’s vote, we will keep you up to date on the best course of action. Now’s a good time to make sure you’re signed up to receive our VoterVoice emails on bookweb.org/advocacy.
Massachusetts
As we enter the final stretch of the Massachusetts legislative session, the window to protect the freedom to read in the Commonwealth is narrowing — and your voice is urgently needed. Please take a moment to remind your state legislators to support H.3594, An Act Regarding Free Expression.
For a short time, we also ask that you send a message to the Chair of the Massachusetts House Ways and Means Committee, Representative Aaron Michlewitz, at [email protected], respectfully urging that he advance H.3594 for a vote before the end of the legislative session. Every message matters. Every voice helps demonstrate the broad and growing support for protecting the freedom to read in Massachusetts.