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Texas Lawmaker Proposes Bill to Ban Animal Behavior in Schools
A Texas legislator has put forth a bill aimed at prohibiting “non-human behavior” in public education settings, specifically targeting actions such as barking, meowing, and other mimicry associated with furry communities. This legislation, known as the Forbidding Unlawful Representation of Roleplaying in Education, or FURRIES Act, was introduced in the Texas House last week by Republican Representative Stan Gerdes.
Gerdes expressed his concerns on social media, stating, “No distractions. No theatrics. Just education. Texas schools are for educating kids, not indulging in radical trends. Let’s keep the focus where it belongs—on preparing students for success in life.”
According to the proposed bill, students would be prohibited from engaging in behaviors typically associated with animals. This includes using specified amenities such as litter boxes, licking themselves, and making animal sounds such as barking, meowing, or hissing. Additionally, the bill aims to prevent students from wearing accessories not intended for human use, including animal-themed items like ears, tails, collars, and leashes. However, the bill clarifies that natural human hair and wigs are exempt from the ban on fur.
Context Surrounding the Legislation
The discussion around animal behavior in schools has gained significant attention, particularly following unfounded allegations regarding litter boxes being installed in school restrooms, which have been consistently debunked by multiple educational institutions across the nation.
Under this new proposal, students would be mandated to present themselves solely as human beings and would be barred from initiating any clubs or organizations associated with non-human behavior. They would also be discouraged from promoting any notion that such behaviors are socially acceptable.
There are exceptions included in the bill, allowing students to participate in certain events such as Halloween or other themed dress-up days that pertain to human history, although these occasions would be limited to five days throughout the school year. Additionally, students may dress up for theater performances or when representing a school mascot.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
The proposed legislation outlines consequences for students who do not adhere to the guidelines, including removal from class, suspension, or expulsion. Furthermore, non-compliant students could be transferred to alternative education programs aimed at juvenile justice.
Teachers would have an obligation to report any infractions to the Texas Attorney General, and school districts that fail to implement these restrictions could face substantial financial penalties starting at $10,000 for first-time offenses and escalating to $25,000 for repeat violations.
Support from State Leadership
This initiative has garnered support from key figures in Texas, including Governor Greg Abbott and House Speaker Dustin Burrows, both of whom are Republicans. Abbott highlighted the importance of focusing on fundamental education, asserting that parents should have the option to move their children to alternative schools if they feel distracted by such issues.
Gerdes has labelled the proposal as “common sense,” expressing gratitude towards Abbott and Burrows for their support. “I’m grateful that our leadership is taking this issue seriously and ensuring that Texas schools remain places of learning, not roleplaying,” he stated on social media, emphasizing the necessity of passing the legislation.
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