Florida Senate passes Parental Rights Education bill, now headed for DeSantis’ desk

The bill has been dubbed “The Don’t Say Gay” bill by critics

Jacksonville, Fl — On Tuesday Florida’s Senate passed a controversial bill that limits when and how teachers and school staff can discuss gender and sexual orientation with students.

In a 22 to 17 vote, the Parental Rights in Education bill now heads to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk to be signed.

This would prohibit classroom discussion of sexual orientation in kindergarten through 3rd grade or in a manner that is not age-appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.

Last month the House approved the bill, rejecting criticism from Democrats who said the proposal demonizes LGBTQ people.

The measure has drawn intense national scrutiny and has served as one of the latest battlegrounds between the White House and Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who is running for reelection and is widely considered to be a potential 2024 presidential candidate.

DeSantis is expected to sign it.

Action News Jax political reporter Jake Stofan will have the full story on CBS47/FOX30 at 5:30.