How I Voted: An Act Regarding Free Expression

Protecting Access to Educational Materials and Supporting Professional Library Standards

Bill: H.3594, An Act Regarding Free Expression

Date of Vote: June 10, 2026

What Problem Was This Bill Trying to Solve?

Schools and libraries play an important role in helping students develop curiosity, think critically, and access information from a variety of perspectives. In recent years, communities have seen an increase in challenges to library materials, creating a need for clear and consistent processes for reviewing those concerns. 

This legislation establishes standards for how school library materials are selected and reviewed. It ensures that questions about educational materials are handled through a transparent process based on professional standards rather than personal or political pressure. 

What Does the Bill Do?

• Recognizes students’ ability to receive information through educational and age-appropriate school library materials. 

• Requires school library decisions to be made by qualified school library professionals or designated school officials when a licensed school library teacher is not available. 

• Requires school districts to adopt written policies governing the selection and review of school library materials. 

• Establishes a clear process for individuals to challenge library materials. 

• Keeps challenged materials available while the review process is underway. 

• Requires challenges to be reviewed through a formal process involving school officials and public input. 

• Requires decisions to remove materials to be based on clear standards and evidence. 

• Provides protections for school library professionals performing their responsibilities in good faith. 

How I Voted

I voted YES.

Why I Voted This Way

As a former teacher, assistant principal, and principal, I understand the important role schools play in helping students learn, explore ideas, and prepare to participate in our communities.

I also understand that families and community members should have a meaningful opportunity to raise concerns about educational materials. A healthy school system should welcome thoughtful discussion while also ensuring that decisions are made through a fair, consistent, and transparent process.

This legislation does not remove the ability of parents and community members to express concerns. Instead, it creates a structured process for reviewing those concerns while ensuring that educators and library professionals can rely on established standards and their professional expertise.

I supported this legislation because students benefit when schools provide access to appropriate educational resources, families have confidence that concerns are heard, and decisions are made through a process grounded in accountability and professionalism.