(NEW YORK)— PEN America today applauded New Hampshire Gov. Kelly Ayotte for her brave veto of a Republican-backed bill that would have prohibited schools from distributing materials described as “harmful to minors.”
The Republican governor rejected House Bill 324, which would have made it easier to challenge books.
“This dangerous bill was designed to erode local control of school districts, and ultimately do a disservice to students by placing their education in the hands of politicians, not education professionals. The veto is a recognition of the damage this bill would cause,” said Kasey Meehan, Freedom to Read Program director at PEN America.
The move follows similar vetoes from the Republican governors of North Dakota and Ohio, and follows efforts by local coalitions to raise awareness about the potential harms of this bill.
“Decisions as to what books belong in libraries should be up to librarians and educators, and reflect the interests of students and parents, not legislators,” Meehan said. “The freedom to read and learn is a vital component of the American public education system, and we must continue to do everything in our power to protect it.”
About PEN America
PEN America stands at the intersection of literature and human rights to protect free expression in the United States and worldwide. We champion the freedom to write, recognizing the power of the word to transform the world. Our mission is to unite writers and their allies to celebrate creative expression and defend the liberties that make it possible. Learn more at pen.org.
Contact: Suzanne Trimel, [email protected], (201) 247-5057