FL S1502

Public schools receiving state funding that provide information or programs on family planning, pregnancy, or sexually transmitted infections must provide comprehensive, medically accurate, and age-appropriate information beginning in 6th grade.

Comprehensive information must cover physical development, sexual health knowledge, responsible decision-making, contraceptive methods and their effects, abstinence as the only certain prevention method, and skills to avoid unwanted sexual advances.

Parents or guardians may request written exemption from instruction on reproductive health or sexually transmitted diseases for their children in accordance with existing state law.

Parents may file complaints with the district superintendent if schools are not complying with curriculum requirements, with appeals available to the school board and Commissioner of Education within specified 30-day timeframes.

The bill takes effect July 1, 2010 and establishes that the Commissioner of Education must notify parents and guardians if a school is found in substantial noncompliance with the requirements.