Learn NEA's position on pending legislation related to public education, and take action to protect our schools
We're speaking up for our students and public schools. Visit our Action Center to find out what you can do.
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Published: February 10, 2025
LGBTQ+ people are subject to a patchwork of state and local laws that leave them vulnerable to discrimination in their daily lives, sending the message that they are second-class citizens.
Discrimination against those who are LGBTQ+, wherever it exists, violates our nation’s core values.
LGBTQ+ youth are particularly vulnerable to prejudice and are more likely than their peers to be bullied, harassed, and attempt suicide.
We need federal laws that afford LGBTQ+ people consistent and explicit protections from discrimination, no matter where they live and work.
Bills in Congress
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Oppose
HR 7661 Stop the Sexualization of Children Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on February 24, 2026
H.R. 7661 is a book ban bill aimed at distracting and dividing Americans by restricting whose stories are allowed on bookshelves, and using threats to funding as an enforcement tool. In effect, the legislation makes Congress the “national school board,” taking decision-making away from local school boards, educators, and families. Its intentionally vague wording would cause confusion and misinterpretation that would harm the healthy communication channels that exist between educators—professionals with experience and expertise—and parents. The language could even impact how subjects such as health, science, and art are taught and discussed. This bill is not about protecting students, but giving politicians the power to exclude voices they do not like or with whom they disagree.
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Support
HR 15 Equality Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on April 29, 2025
This bill would give LGBTQ+ Americans explicit protection from discrimination in key areas of life: employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and service, federal programs and jury service.
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Support
S 1503 Equality Act www.congress.gov
Introduced on April 29, 2025
This bill would give LGBTQ+ Americans explicit protection from discrimination in key areas of life: employment, housing, credit, education, public spaces and service, federal programs and jury service.
Letters & Testimony
NEA speaks up for the rights of students. Browse recent messages to Congressional leadership, and add your voice.
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NEA Urges House Ed & Workforce Committee to Vote NO on H.R. 7661, a Book-Banning Bill
Submitted on March 16, 2026
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ED-2025-OPE-1009; Request for Information; Updates to the Accreditation Handbook
Submitted on January 26, 2026
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ED-2025-OESE-0152; Proposed Rule, School-Based Mental Health Services Grant Program
Submitted on August 18, 2025
We're speaking up for our students and public schools. Visit our Action Center to find out what you can do.
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Supporting LGBTQ Educators and Students
NEA is committed to supporting members working to address bias around sexual orientation and gender identity in our schools.
