Florida House expands ‘Don't Speak Gay' law.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – A bill that was approved by the House on Friday along party lines might lead to the expansion of what critics refer to as the "Don't Say Gay" rule in the state of Florida. This law bans discussions of gender identity and sexual orientation in public schools.

The bill, which was passed with a vote of 77-35, would prohibit the discussion of those concerns through the eighth grade. This comes a year after lawmakers gained widespread notice for passing a similar bill that prohibited the discussion of those subjects through the third grade. The law would also make it illegal for school employees or students to be forced to refer to individuals using pronouns that do not correspond to the sex of the individual being discussed.

The bill was one of several that were passed by the House but still require approval from the Senate before they can be sent to Governor Ron DeSantis. Other bills that were passed include ones that would change the start time for middle and high school students, prohibit sports fans from running onto a pitch in celebration, and require all Florida courthouses to designate private lactation places.

But, the education law that increases what the Republican party refers to as parental rights in education was without a doubt the bill that generated the greatest discussion during the day.

Democrats have stated that the measure is detrimental to LGBTQ children, teachers, and their families, and Republicans are attempting to instill fear in situations where there should not be any.

"Educators have, quite literally, put their lives at danger for the sake of their students. They will stop at nothing to ensure their well-being and safety. They are not trying to brainwash our children in any way. Democratic Representative Rita Harris described them as heroes rather than villains. "And as a result of this measure, even more of these outstanding teachers will abandon their careers, and some of them will even leave the state."

The claim that it was an anti-LGBTQ measure was challenged by Republicans.

"This bill does not criminalise educators; rather, it frees them from unnecessary restrictions. "What this law does is allow instructors to teach," said Rep. Ralph Massullo, a Republican in the House of Representatives.