STATEMENT TO

[First Reprint]

SENATE, No. 311

with Senate Floor Amendments

(Proposed by Senator RICE)

ADOPTED: FEBRUARY 19, 2021

     These Senate amendments provide that a board of education or board of trustees of a charter school may adopt a dress code policy to prohibit students from wearing clothing, apparel, or accessories which display hate speech, including the symbols or slogans of hate groups.  Current law provides that a school dress code can prohibit students from wearing clothing that indicates membership in, or affiliation with, any gang associated with criminal activities.  The amendments also require local law enforcement to advise the school board upon its request of the common symbols and slogans of hate groups.