Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona was quick to condemn what he called a "hateful" bill and even warned the state about federal funding if the new law violates federal civil rights law. RELATED: 'Don't Say Gay' bill heads to Florida Senate for final vote RELATED: 'Don't Say Gay' bill clears first Florida Senate hurdle Activists have dubbed the proposal moving through Florida’s GOP. RELATED: Students across Tampa Bay protest 'Don't Say Gay' bill (AP) Florida Republicans want to forbid discussions of sexual orientation or gender identity in schools with a bill that activists say endangers children and echoes a previous wave of laws that sought to squelch LGBTQ conversations in the classroom. This does one simple thing, it decides who's in charge." "This has all been fabricated by the media, my friend. "I didn't call the bill the no gay whatever bill," Senator Dennis Baxley said.
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But Democrats, LGBTQ activists, and even President Joe Biden have said the bill is harmful, even dangerous, and could cause even more discrimination. The bill's sponsor said it gives parents control and has the votes to pass.
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It would also allow parents to sue school districts if they believe the policy is violated. House Bill 1557 bans teachers in Pre-K through 3rd grade classrooms from teaching about sexual orientation or gender identity. The bill passed the Senate by a 22-17 vote.
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The Parental Rights in Education Bill that critics call the "Don't Say Gay" bill was approved by the Florida Senate Tuesday and sent to Governor Ron DeSantis for his signature.