TX Senate Approves Ban On “Harmful” Library Books

The Texas Tribune reports:

The Texas Senate on Thursday approved a bill that would significantly change the processes and procedures Texas’ school libraries have to follow.

Senate Bill 13, from Sen. Angela Paxton, R-McKinney, would let parents receive notice each time their children obtain school library materials, prohibit the acquisition or retention of “harmful” and indecent materials, and create local councils to help districts ensure “community values are reflected in each school library catalog in the district.”

Under the bill, school boards would have to approve all new library materials and publicly release lists of proposed library purchases 30 days ahead of acquiring new materials.

Read the full article. Opponents say that the bill’s language is vague as to what constitutes “harmful and indecent.” Sen. Angela Paxton is the wife of far-right Texas AG Ken Paxton. She last appeared here for her successful bill allowing home-schooled students to play on the sports teams of public schools.

The Texas Senate on Thursday approved a bill that would significantly change the processes and procedures Texas’ school libraries have to follow. (via @TexasTribune)https://t.co/SmFbTo3RCl

— CBS Austin (@cbsaustin) April 13, 2023