The 89th Session of the Texas Legislature was a tough one for those who care about the freedom to read. Texas Freedom to Read Project spent countless hours working alongside legislators, staffers, and incredible advocacy groups to stand up for students, libraries, public schools, and the fundamental right to access information. There were some important wins, but also some deeply frustrating losses.

One of the most disheartening aspects of this session was seeing how many bills, especially those impacting libraries and the freedom to read, were driven more by political theater and special interests than by the real needs of Texans. They were written to score points in a culture war, often at the expense of public schools and libraries. This is particularly frustrating when so many Texas families are facing real, urgent challenges.

Among the most concerning pieces of legislation to pass this year is Senate Bill 13, which imposes new onerous and impractical regulations on school libraries. We warned our community  about it during the session here and here. Unfortunately the bill takes effect September 1. 

Email your school board trustees, or sign up to speak at your next school board meeting and tell them:

Please adopt the Library Materials EFB Local policy update- that does NOT establish a school library advisory council (SLAC).