While the effort to restrict access to books has been getting somewhat less attention on the national stage, it remains a potent issue on the state and local level, where most decisions about schools and libraries are made.
Proponents say these rules are necessary to protect children from encountering sensitive topics, like sexual content, sexual violence or graphic depictions of nudity, on their own.
Detractors say these rules make it difficult for students to view a range of books, including those that reflect real world experiences and some classics with more mature themes that have long been taught in high schools.
Here’s what to know about the new state rules:UtahAn amendment to an existing law that went into effect on July 1 aims to “identify and remove pornographic or indecent material” from school classrooms and libraries.
This includes any book or other classroom or library material that includes descriptions of sex or masturbation.
Locations:
Utah , Idaho, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah