Tenn. Senate OKs Ban on Teaching of Homosexuality

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — A bill passed by the Tennessee Senate would forbid public school teachers and students in grades kindergarten through eight from discussing the fact that some people are gay.

The bill was passed by the Senate on Friday. Opponents deride the measure as the "don't say gay bill" and say it's unfair to the children of gay parents. Supporters say it is intended to give teachers clear guidance on a sensitive topic.

The bill isn't likely to be taken up by the House before lawmakers adjourn this spring, but the sponsor there has said he would push it forward in 2012. Passage would make Tennessee the first state to enact such legislation, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

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Online:

Read SB0049 at: http://capitol.tn.gov/