S.B. 229, a bill aimed at adding curriculum on consent to health classes, failed to pass in the Utah Senate Monday night.Sponsored by Sen. Kathleen Riebe, the bill seeked to add extra instructions — such as refusal, consent and the use of contraceptive methods — to 8th grade health courses.
In an online blog sent to parents, opponents of the bill called it confusing and dangerous. They compared it to H.B. 177, a bill looking to include information about consent and coercion to prevent unwanted sexual behaviors in health curriculum. It was also rejected because of similar complaints of confusion. Another issue opponents had was the lack of state money appropriated to the bill.
Supporters of the bill say this is a missed opportunity for students to learn key information about practicing safe sex.
