Legislators in Idaho have advanced House Bill 384, which aims to restrict the availability of library books considered 'harmful' to children. Over a hundred people attended the legislative committee's hearing on the bill, and 18 testified. The majority of them expressed opposition. The bill, sponsored by Rep. Jaron Crane, R-Nampa, gained the support of all 11 Republicans on the committee but faced opposition from Democrats.

House Bill 384 is a revision of last year's House Bill 314, which Governor Brad Little vetoed. House Bill 384 empowers parents to seek damages from libraries if their children are exposed to materials considered "harmful," as outlined in Idaho's 1972 obscenity law. The definition encompasses topics such as homosexuality, nudity, masturbation, and other sexual conduct.

The proposed law would introduce a new rule enabling guardians of minors to submit a written complaint to the private or public school or public library regarding the supposed objectionable materials. The institution would have 30 days to relocate these items to an adult section.

Concerns From Library and School Representatives

Library and school representatives voiced concerns during the hearing, asserting that the bill would be impractical for libraries with limited budgets. Robert Wright, Idaho Falls Public Library Director, stated that having a separate adult space would be too expensive. If the law passes, he mentioned that they might have to shut down the whole second floor to those under 18 and possibly hire someone to check IDs.

A librarian in Meridian mentioned that the bill could stop teenage workers from putting books in grown-up sections, making more work for adult employees. Shane Reichert, the general counsel for the Idaho Education Association, pointed out that the bill will lead to unnecessary lawsuits due to its unclear and broad language. 

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Debates on the Book's Contents

Several individuals questioned the definition of 'harmful' materials and emphasized the importance of not sexualizing children's literature. Isabella Burgess, an associate librarian at the Meridian Library District, states that homosexuality does not imply obscenity. Burgess stresses the importance of inclusivity for families with same-sex parents.

Wright stated that these books can potentially help molested and abused children understand their suffering. Wright mentioned that his library already has a procedure for parents to question whether materials in the library are suitable.

While most public testimonies opposed the bill, some individuals expressed support. Jacquelyn Davidson, a republican precinct committeewoman, claimed to have found books in public libraries that allegedly promoted 'homosexuality and gender dysphoria.' Karen Jackson, a resident of Twin Falls, claimed that these books increase the vulnerability of children to sexual predators.

Efforts to restrict library materials, along with allegations of librarians grooming children or promoting sexualization, have been on the rise nationally. Some testifiers have linked obscene materials to increased risks of rape, murder, and child molestation.

Despite the public outcry against the bill, lawmakers are pushing ahead, citing perceived shortcomings in existing library policies. The debate continues over whether the proposed legislation is a necessary protective measure or infringes on literary freedom and education.

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