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HF 274

A bill for an act relating to obscenity exemptions for public libraries and educational institutions.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Helena Hayes

HF 274 repeals obscenity exemptions for public libraries and schools, limiting access to certain materials and affecting minors' exposure to diverse educational resources.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 521.
#libraries #obscenity #schools
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Bill Summary · HF 274

Summary of HF 274 - Obscenity Exemptions for Public Libraries and Educational Institutions

Bill Number: HF 274
Title: A bill for an act relating to obscenity exemptions for public libraries and educational institutions
Status: Renumbered as HF 521 after committee report approval
Introduced: February 10, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Libraries, Obscenity, Schools

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 274 is to repeal existing Code section 728.7, which currently provides specific exemptions regarding obscenity laws for public libraries and educational institutions. This bill aims to modify the legal framework governing the use of materials deemed obscene in educational settings, potentially impacting how educational institutions and libraries handle such materials.

Key Provisions

  • Repeal of Code Section 728.7: The bill seeks to eliminate the provisions that allow for the use of materials that may be classified as obscene for educational purposes in accredited schools and public libraries.

  • Current Exemptions: Under the existing law, Code section 728.7 permits:

    • The use of appropriate materials for educational purposes in accredited schools and public libraries.
    • Attendance of minors at exhibitions or displays of artworks that may contain obscene materials.

  • Definition of Obscene Material: The bill references Code section 728.1, which defines "obscene material" as content that:

    • Appeals to prurient interests based on contemporary community standards.
    • Is patently offensive.
    • Lacks serious literary, scientific, political, or artistic value.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Public Libraries: Libraries may face restrictions on the types of materials they can offer, particularly those that could be classified as obscene.

  • Educational Institutions: Schools may need to reevaluate their curricula and materials used in classrooms, potentially limiting access to certain educational resources.

  • Minors: The repeal could affect minors' exposure to various forms of art and literature, as the protections that currently allow for their attendance at certain exhibitions may be removed.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Timeline:
    • February 10, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Education Committee.
    • February 11, 2025: Subcommittee meeting held to discuss the bill.
    • February 17, 2025: Subcommittee recommended passage of the bill.
    • February 18, 2025: Committee reported the bill with a recommendation for passage (Vote: Yeas 14, Nays 8, Excused 1).
    • February 20, 2025: Bill approved by the committee and renumbered as HF 521.

Conclusion

HF 274 represents a significant shift in the legal treatment of obscenity in educational contexts. By repealing the exemptions currently in place, the bill could restrict access to certain materials in public libraries and schools, impacting educational practices and the availability of diverse resources for minors. The ongoing legislative process will determine the final outcome of this bill and its implications for libraries and educational institutions.

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

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