Missouri Bill Regarding Instruction in Human Sexuality in Schools (HB 1008)

HB 1008 would have changed the laws regarding instruction in human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases in a public or charter school to, among other things:

1. require any course materials and instruction relating to human sexuality and sexually transmitted diseases to also be based on peer-reviewed projects that have been demonstrated to influence healthy behavior and be age appropriate;
2. change the requirement that abstinence be presented as the preferred choice of behavior by repealing the provision regarding the emotional trauma associated with adolescent sexual activity and the higher risk of dropping out of school because of the consequences of the diseases and an unplanned pregnancy and specifying that abstinence is the only sure way to avoid pregnancy or sexually transmitted infection;
3. repeal the provision requiring that students be presented with the latest medically factual information regarding the possible side effects and health benefits of all forms of contraceptives and information on contraceptives and pregnancy in a manner consistent with the provisions of the federal Abstinence Education Law, and replace those provisions with a requirement that students must be presented with the latest medically factual information about the health benefits and side effects of all contraceptives and barrier methods as a means to prevent pregnancy and reduce the risk of contracting infections and other diseases;
4. repeal the provisions prohibiting a school district or charter school from providing abortion services or allowing a provider of abortion services to present materials or instruction relating to human sexuality or sexually transmitted diseases to its students.

STATUS

Companion bill to SB 450.

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