Summary of HRES 797

Bill Number: HRES 797

Title: Expressing concern about the growing problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States

Status: Submitted in House

Introduced: October 08, 2025

Classification: Resolution

Purpose and Intent

HRES 797 is a resolution introduced in the House of Representatives that aims to address the increasing issue of book banning and the associated threats to freedom of expression in the United States. The resolution emphasizes the importance of the First Amendment rights, particularly the freedom to read and access diverse viewpoints without government interference.

Key Provisions

The resolution includes several important provisions:

1. Expression of Concern: It formally expresses concern regarding the rising trend of book banning and threats to freedom of expression.

2. Reaffirmation of First Amendment Rights: The resolution reaffirms the United States' commitment to protecting the freedom of expression for writers and the right of individuals to read without government censorship.

3. Guidelines for Local Governments: It calls on local governments and school districts to adhere to best practice guidelines when addressing challenges to books, ensuring that decisions are made thoughtfully and fairly.

4. Protection of Educational Rights: The resolution urges local governments and school districts to safeguard students' rights to learn and educators' rights to teach, advocating for access to a wide range of books that reflect diverse perspectives.

5. Return of Removed Books: It demands the immediate return of all books that have been removed from Department of Defense schools under executive orders since January 2025.

6. Repeal of Content-Based Restrictions: The resolution calls for the repeal of executive orders and directives that impose content-based restrictions on reading and learning in public schools across the United States.

Impact

The resolution primarily affects:

• Students and Educators: By advocating for the protection of educational rights, it aims to ensure that students have access to a broad spectrum of literature and that educators can teach without undue restrictions.

• Local Governments and School Districts: The resolution places expectations on these entities to follow best practices in handling book challenges and to uphold the rights of students and educators.

• Department of Defense Schools: The call for the return of removed books specifically targets Department of Defense schools, impacting military families and students.

Legislative Actions

• October 08, 2025: The resolution was referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, as well as the Committees on the Judiciary and Armed Services, for consideration of relevant provisions.

This resolution serves as a significant statement on the importance of maintaining freedom of expression and access to literature in the face of growing censorship efforts in the United States.