WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

H 351

EDUCATION – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding parental rights in education.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill H 351 boosts parental rights in education by ensuring access to materials, promoting involvement, and allowing withdrawal from harmful activities.

Introduced, read first time; referred to: Education
#education #guardiansandconservators #parents #schoolsandschooldistricts #teachingandteachers
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · H 351

Summary of House Bill H 351: Parental Rights in Education

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: H 351
  • Title: Education – Amends existing law to revise provisions regarding parental rights in education.
  • Introduced: March 03, 2025
  • Status: Introduced, read first time; referred to: Education
  • Classification: Bill
  • Subject Areas: Education, Guardians and Conservators, Parents, Schools and School Districts, Teaching and Teachers

Purpose and Intent

House Bill H 351 aims to enhance parental rights in education by increasing transparency and involvement in their children's schooling. The bill seeks to ensure that parents and legal guardians have access to educational materials and the ability to engage in their children's academic experiences.

Key Provisions

The bill amends Section 33-6001 of the Idaho Code and includes several significant provisions:

  1. Transparency in Educational Materials:

    • School districts must publish a list of all supplemental educational materials, required textbooks, and course syllabi on their websites by October 1 each year.

  2. Parental Involvement Policies:

    • Schools are required to develop policies that promote parental participation in various aspects of education, including homework, attendance, and discipline.

  3. Withdrawal from Activities:

    • Parents can withdraw their children from activities or classes if they believe the materials used are harmful or conflict with their personal beliefs.

  4. Access to Health Records:

    • Parents have the right to access their children's educational and health records, with specific exceptions related to abuse or neglect.

  5. Notification of Health and Well-Being:

    • Schools must notify parents about any changes in their child's mental, emotional, or physical health.

  6. Surveys and Questionnaires:

    • Consent from parents is required before administering noncurricular-related surveys or questionnaires that touch on sensitive topics such as sexuality or personal beliefs.

  7. Observation Rights:

    • Parents are granted reasonable access to observe school activities, with certain conditions to prevent disruption.

  8. Complaint Mechanism:

    • Parents can file complaints if they believe their rights have been violated, and if unresolved, they may seek legal action for relief.

Impact

The bill is expected to affect:
- Parents and Legal Guardians: Enhances their rights and involvement in their children's education.
- School Districts and Charter Schools: Requires them to adopt new policies and procedures to comply with the bill's provisions.
- Students: May experience changes in how educational materials and health-related information are managed and communicated.

Fiscal Note

The implementation of this bill is not expected to require additional general fund dollars or new taxpayer funds.

Timeline

  • Effective Date: The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, following the declaration of an emergency.

Legislative Actions

  • March 10, 2025: Passed in the House with a vote of 56-13-1 and sent to the Senate.
  • March 5, 2025: Reported out of the Education Committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation.

This summary provides an overview of House Bill H 351, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on education in Idaho.

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

Sign in to ask a question.