HB 1557 was passed by the Florida House of Representatives last month, effectively earning enough support from Republican proponents to make it to the desk of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.
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By Ashley George
The LGBTQ+ community takes another hit as the Florida Senate passed House Bill (HB) 1557 in a 22-17 vote on March 8.
The bill, informally known as the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, was passed by the Florida House of Representatives last month, effectively earning enough support from Republican proponents to make it to the desk of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis.
The legislation is formally known as the Parental Rights in Education bill, with a declared emphasis on parent involvement by bill supporters.
HB 1557 states that discussions surrounding LGBTQ+ topics, like sexual orientation and gender identity, “may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”
Desantis has continuously vocalized his support for the bill and is expected to sign it into law.
White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki denounced the legislation in a press conference Wednesday.
“It’s discriminatory. It’s a form of bullying. It’s horrific,” Psaki said.
Student activists from the University of South Florida St. Petersburg have also spoken out against and protested Florida lawmakers, condemning the bill. LGBTQ+ members and allies at USF St. Petersburg participated in the statewide walkout organized by advocates on March 3 to publicly object the legislation.
The school’s P.R.I.D.E. Alliance has also taken measures against the bill, including writing letters to legislators and creating a safe space for students to discuss their experiences and how the bill has impacted them.
If the bill is signed by DeSantis, it would take effect July 1.
