In a significant step to uphold parental rights in education, a new law in Wyoming now prohibits educators from teaching children about sexual orientation or gender identity without parental consent. Known as SF0009, the law also necessitates that schools inform parents about any changes in their child’s educational, physical, mental or emotional well-being and keep parents privy to educational, behavioral, health, and other records.
Even though Republican Governor Mark Gordon raised concerns about the necessity of the law, stating that current state and federal laws already provide broad protection to parents’ rights, he allowed the bill to become law without veto.
Advocates of the law, however, argue its necessity, citing instances of schools infringing on parental rights. They reference cases such as Sweetwater County School District No.1 allegedly helping a confused girl transition to a male identity without her parents’ knowledge. Evidence suggests that affirming gender confusion can carry significant risks, particularly when involving children due to their lack of mental maturity and unawareness of the long-term consequences of these decisions.