State and LGBTQ advocates reach settlement over Florida's Don't Say Gay law

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — In the latest development in an ongoing saga, a settlement was announced between the state of Florida and LGBTQ advocates, over the Parental Rights in Education law.

The law, which was dubbed “Don’t Say Gay” by opponents, prohibits classroom instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation.

What You Need To Know

The state of Florida and LGBTQ advocates announced a settlement involving the Parental Rights in Education law
The Office of Gov. Ron DeSantis calls the settlement a win, as the law still stands
However, the settlement offers advisement and clarification to schools
In part, the settlement states that discussion of LGTBQ topics is allowed as long as it is not part of classroom instruction
It also states that all instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity is prohibited, not just topics associated with the LGBTQ community

In a release, the Office of Gov. Ron DeSantis called the settlement “a major win.” Under the settlement, Florida’s Parental Rights and Education law was not struck down as instruction on gender identity and sexual orientation is still barred from classrooms.

“We fought hard to ensure this law couldn’t be maligned in court, as it was in the public arena by the media and large corporate actors,” said General Counsel Ryan in a statement. “We are victorious, and Florida’s classrooms will remain a safe place under the Parental Rights in Education Act.”

However, the plaintiffs, which include Equality Florida and Family Equality, have also called the move a win for their case.

“This settlement will safeguard LGBTQ+ students from bullying, end censorship of LGBTQ+ communities, and reinstate Gay-Straight Alliances in public schools,” they wrote in a release.

The settlement provides further clarification on the Florida law and sheds light on many issues teachers were unsure about.

Under the agreement, teachers may not instruct on sexual orientation and gender identity, but simple discussion is not barred. Debate, particularly those that take place between two students, is admissible.

As long as it doesn’t tie into instruction, teachers may display pride or “safe space” stickers. Staff members in same-sex partnerships may also display family photos.

The clarification comes as some teachers were left scratching their heads on whether their decor was legal after the original passage of the law.

“(It’s) so important for these kids to see themselves represented in society, in their teachers lives, to know where to go for help,” said Orange County parent Judi Hayes.

The Florida Department of Education is required to send a copy of the agreement to the school boards overseeing each of Florida’s school districts.