A bill that would limit certain teachings on race in public schools and allow parents to challenge educational materials is moving through the Republican-controlled South Carolina House of Representatives.
The proposal is the latest iteration of a GOP-led nationwide effort to crack down on “critical race theory." The measure is co-sponsored by several members of the Legislature's newly formed Freedom Caucus. It would bar curricula from including or promoting certain concepts around race and other demographics.
The bill, which would take effect for the 2024-2025 school year — requires that school district websites include a list of approved textbooks and require that schools create a process for parents to challenge materials potentially violating the guidelines.
A House subcommittee focused on K-12 education in South Carolina gave the bill a favorable report on Tuesday by a 4-2 vote. The American Civil Liberties Union of South Carolina criticized what the group called vague language in the bill that would chill teachers’ speech and misrepresent American history.