INDIANAPOLIS — A rolled-back version of a bill aimed at restricting what teachers can and cannot say about race, history and politics in classrooms has been adopted by the Senate education committee.
It comes after public outrage and criticism from Indiana educators.
The committee adopted significant changes that watered down much of what was in House Bill 1134, the Associated Press reports.
A hearing on the bill ended around 6:35 p.m., while educators, students and concerned Hoosiers waited outside the Senate chambers to testify.
MORE | Bill banning transgender girls from playing school sports in Indiana passes Senate committee
Committee Chair Sen. Jeff Raatz said about 91% of those who signed up to testify were against the bill and its amendments. The rest were neutral or in support.
Not all who signed up to testify got a chance to speak at the podium.
Raatz said he tried to randomly pick names from the list to “get a good mix” and include students.
Sen. Fady Qaddoura, D-Indianapolis said there’s bipartisan opposition to the bill and pointed out some of the original language that is still included in the amendment. He said he will continue working with the committee on the bill.
MORE | Southside Indianapolis homeless camp cleared after orders by INDOT
The amendment to the bill will be brought back up by the committee next Wednesday.
Sen. Linda Rogers R,-Grangers, who introduced the amendments, said the bill is still a work in progress. She suggested including a portion addressing mental health and asked lawmakers to bring their constructive criticism to her.
The bill is authored by Rep. Anthony Cook, R-Cicero, co-authored by Reps. J.D. Prescott, R-Union City and Chuck Goodrich, R-Noblesville and Sponsored by Sen. Rogers.
-
Indiana trooper injured after being struck on US 41 in Knox County
A master trooper was injured Tuesday night when a SUV struck him and his patrol vehicle on U.S. 41 in Knox County, Indiana State Police said.
IMPD arrests woman accused of stabbing coworker at Indiana Convention Center
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department confirmed Wednesday morning an arrest has been made in a stabbing incident at the Indiana Convention Center Tuesday night.
Strong to Severe storms across Indiana
Beautiful weather started the day, but conditions are quickly changing. Rain and storm chances return for the middle of the week.
Former Purdue star Braden Smith works out for Pacers
Former Purdue star Braden Smith worked out with his hometown team, the Indiana Pacers, on Monday ahead of the NBA Draft.
