A measure – House Bill 1163 – has been introduced in the General Assembly that would require school districts to provide comprehensive sex education.

The bill would require districts to provide students with sex education information that is “medically accurate and age appropriate.” 

This information would include:  the benefits and reasons for not engaging in sexual intercourse; how alcohol and drug use affect decision making; federally approved contraceptives; sexually transmitted infections; sexual relationships, pressures and behaviors; risk of pregnancy; and communication with parents or trusted adults regarding sexuality.

The bill would prohibit school boards from teaching “abstinence-only” sex education.

Parents would be given the opportunity to excuse their children from the instruction.

Pro:    Those who support the bill have argued that it is important to equip students with “factual” information so they can protect themselves and make informed decisions.

Con:   Those who oppose the bill have argued that sexual education decisions should be made at the local level by school boards elected by local residents.  They view this as an attempt by the state to exercise aggressive power by forcing districts to conform with a statewide mandate.

What do you think?