New legislation that opens librarians and educators to civil liabilities from parents or guardians angry about materials their children access in libraries awaits a vote on the floor of the Idaho House.
House Bill 314 also “requires public schools and community libraries to take reasonable steps in restricting children’s access to obscene or harmful material” — something the Idaho Professional Standards Code of Ethics for educators and librarians already ensures.
Written testimony arguing against the bill was submitted by Idaho Education Association.
“Librarians should be able to use their professional judgement and expertise to select and use materials while engaging in a bilateral dialogue with taxpayers without the chilling effect of civil liability precluding their decisions and dialogue,” the IEA testimony read. “Librarians offer a critical service to communities by housing a diverse and freely accessible collection of materials and ideas. Currently, ample recourse exists for community members who wish to challenge materials in library collections, particularly through regular library board elections, appeals to library boards, and existing library policies.”
Sponsored by Sen. Cindy Carlson (R-Riggins) and Rep. Jaron Crane (R-Nampa), the bill was approved by the House State Affairs Committee on Tuesday. A full House vote is expected early next week.