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HSB 34

A bill for an act incorporating provisions related to pregnancy and fetal development into the human growth and development and health curriculum provided by school districts, accredited nonpublic schools, charter schools, and innovation zone schools to students enrolled in grades seven through twelve.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 391 mandates public and accredited private schools to teach about pregnancy and fetal development in grades 7-12, enhancing students' health education.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 391.
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Bill Summary · HSB 34

Summary of HSB 34 (Renumbered as HF 391)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 34, now known as HF 391, is a proposed bill aimed at incorporating specific educational content related to pregnancy and fetal development into the human growth and development and health curriculum for students in grades seven through twelve. The bill seeks to enhance the understanding of human biology and fetal development among adolescents, thereby promoting informed discussions about health and human development.

Key Provisions

The bill proposes the following key changes to the existing curriculum requirements:

  1. Curriculum Amendments:

    • The health curriculum for grades seven and eight will include:
      • Human Biology Related to Pregnancy: Instruction on the biological aspects of pregnancy.
      • Fetal Development: Information on human development inside the womb.
      • Visual Aids: A requirement to show a high-definition ultrasound video (minimum three minutes) that illustrates the development of the brain, heart, sex organs, and other vital organs during early fetal development.

  2. Educational Standards:

    • The state board will adopt curriculum definitions to ensure the effective implementation of these provisions in schools.
    • The bill emphasizes that the curriculum must be age-appropriate and based on research.

  3. Exemptions:

    • The provisions regarding career exploration and development will not apply to nonpublic schools.

Affected Entities

The bill will impact:
- School Districts: Public schools will need to revise their health curriculum to include the new content.
- Accredited Nonpublic Schools: Private schools that are accredited will also be required to adapt their curricula accordingly.
- Charter Schools and Innovation Zone Schools: These institutions will similarly need to comply with the new educational requirements.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 15, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: January 29, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: January 30, 2025
  • Committee Vote: February 11, 2025 (16 in favor, 7 against)
  • Committee Report Approving Bill: February 13, 2025, leading to renumbering as HF 391.

Conclusion

HSB 34 (HF 391) represents a significant shift in the educational curriculum concerning human growth and development, particularly focusing on pregnancy and fetal development. By mandating the inclusion of specific content and visual aids, the bill aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of these topics, thereby fostering informed discussions and awareness among adolescents.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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