Expressing concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States.
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Committee
Latest Action · September 24, 2024
Referred to the Committee on Education and the Workforce, and in addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
This resolution expresses congressional concern about the rise in book banning across the United States and affirms the importance of freedom of expression and access to diverse reading materials. According to the resolution, book bans have more than doubled in the past year, with over 10,000 instances recorded between July 2023 and June 2024, affecting classic literature and award-winning works as well as books featuring LGBTQ+ characters, racial themes, and diverse perspectives. The resolution notes that Florida and Texas lead in book restrictions with at least 1,972 and 1,426 banned or restricted books respectively across their school districts, and that most bans did not follow established professional guidelines. The resolution calls on local governments and school districts to follow best practice procedures when addressing book challenges and to protect students' rights to access a wide range of books reflecting diverse viewpoints, while affirming that freedom to read is essential to democracy. This is a symbolic resolution without funding or enforcement mechanisms; it expresses the House's position rather than creating new law or regulations.
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