The Massachusetts Senate has approved a bill that would update the sex education curriculum, which has not officially changed since 1999.
Currently, public school districts are working under guidelines proposed last year by Governor Maura Healey, to suit the needs of a more diverse student population.
Known as the Healthy Youth Act, school districts that choose to teach sex education would follow a curriculum designed to examine the formation of healthy relationships, gender identity, and sexual orientation, along with the prevention of sexually transmitted diseases and safe sex.
Parents would be able to opt their children out of the curriculum.
Proponents call the updated measure common-sense legislation, while opponents claim it is not age-appropriate and would lead to mandated sex education statewide.
(Photo by JOSEPH PREZIOSO/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: JOSEPH PREZIOSO / AFP / Getty Images