Minnesota Legislature Passes Bill to Ban Book Bans

(KNSI) — A bill to ban book bans is on its way to Governor Tim Walz’s desk.

The provision is part of the omnibus education policy bill. It says school districts would be prohibited from banning or removing otherwise age-appropriate books or other materials based solely on the viewpoint, content, message, idea, or opinion conveyed. Opponents of the measure advocated for leaving the decision up to local school boards. The law says school boards could still adopt policies to create procedures to select or reconsider available reading materials. While the bill mandates the establishment of procedures for selecting and reconsidering library materials, it does not restrict students or families from suggesting curriculum changes.

The bill’s author, Representative Cedric Frazier, says it aims to provide access to diverse viewpoints. “Banning books not only limits educational opportunities but also sends a chilling message that certain stories and experiences are unwelcome. In Minnesota, we are making sure our libraries and schools are a safe space for exploration and discovery, not places where knowledge is censored.”

The governor has voiced support for the measure and is expected to sign the bill in the next few days.

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