Controversies continue overbook bans in AZ & FL

NATION – As of September 2024, Arizona’s controversial book ban law, Senate Bill 1700, has been in effect for 18 months. This legislation, which allows parents to request the removal of books from public school libraries, continues to spark debate. Meanwhile, ongoing developments in Florida’s more extensive book removal efforts provide a contrasting example of similar policies.
Arizona’s Book Challenge Process
Under Arizona’s Senate Bill 1700, passed in March 2023, parents can request the removal of books they consider inappropriate from school libraries and classrooms. The process involves parents identifying objectionable books and submitting a formal request to the Arizona Department of Education. After state review, a decision is made, and approved requests result in books being added to a banned list. Schools must then comply with the removal of listed books. An appeals process has been established for challenging decisions.
Since its implementation, SB 1700 has had significant effects. The Arizona Department of Education reports processing over 1,000 book removal requests, with approximately 200 books added to the state’s banned list. Two federal lawsuits challenging the law’s constitutionality are pending, and minor legislative amendments were passed in early 2024 to clarify the review process.
Florida’s Contrasting Approach
Florida’s more aggressive stance on book removals continues to draw national attention. As of mid-2024, over 4,000 books have been removed or restricted in Florida schools. Multiple federal lawsuits are under review, and some authors and publishers have initiated boycotts of Florida schools. Educators report challenges in teaching certain subjects, particularly in literature and social studies classes, due to reduced access to diverse texts.
National Trends and Debates
The book ban issue remains contentious nationwide. Several states have passed or are considering laws similar to those in Arizona and Florida. National organizations, including the American Library Association and PEN America, continue to advocate against book bans, citing concerns about censorship and educational quality. Book bans have become a significant issue in local school board elections and state-level political campaigns.
For those considering using Arizona’s book challenge process, it’s important to review the current criteria for book removal, as outlined in SB 1700 and subsequent amendments. Parents should prepare a detailed rationale for objections, as the review process has become more rigorous. Be aware of potential delays, as the volume of requests has led to longer processing times. It’s also crucial to consider the broader implications for curriculum and student access to diverse perspectives.
As the debate over book bans continues, Arizona’s experience offers insights into the challenges and controversies surrounding such policies. The contrast with Florida’s more extensive approach highlights the varying degrees of implementation and impact across states grappling with similar issues.
As more data emerges on the long-term effects of these policies, it will likely inform future debates and policy decisions both in Arizona and nationwide.
–Stephan Lightman