MN HF358

Commissioner of education must identify one or more comprehensive sexual health education model programs for elementary and secondary students in consultation with the commissioner of health and other experts, with access provided to school districts and charter schools by June 1, 2023.

Model program must include medically accurate, age-appropriate instruction on human anatomy and reproduction, consent and healthy relationships including diverse sexual orientations and gender identities, abstinence and contraception methods, and substance use relationships to sexual behavior.

Starting in the 2023-2024 school year, all school districts and charter schools must implement a comprehensive sexual health education program covering required topics while respecting community values and providing information about local reproductive health resources.

School districts and charter schools that do not adopt the commissioner's model program must submit their own sexual health education program for commissioner approval, including documentation of their development process and instructor training.

Instruction in sexual health education may be provided by persons without teaching licenses if employed by the school district, charter school, or community organization and deemed to have necessary content expertise by school administration.

Commissioner must report to legislature by January 15, 2024 on model program identification, assistance provided, adoption numbers, and any districts requesting approval.