LAKESIDE, Calif. — The Lakeside Library was packed Saturday morning for the Parental Rights Town Hall. Supervisor Joel Anderson and Lakeside Union School District Board President Andrew Hayes moderated the discussion about AB 1955.
The Safety Act was introduced by San Diego Assemblymember Chris Ward. The law does not allow teachers or school staff in California to notify parents if a child changes their gender identity or pronouns.
"It's an issue that should be handled in the family, government should not be involved," a town hall attendee said.
Supporters said this prevents 'forced outings' and protects the well-being and safety of students. On the other hand, many parents say they should have the right to know the decisions their kids make at school.
"Nobody wants to see any child hurt in any way, shape or form," Supervisor Joel Anderson said. "And at the same time we can't say that we're doing best by our kids if we're excluding parents at the table."
Lakeside Union School District Board President Andrew Hayes said the new California law contradicts with federal law.
"This is also backstopped by previous law, that says 12-year-olds are able to consent to mental health services without notification to parents," Hayes said.
Now, he and his board are taking a specific list of questions to court to get clarity.
"My concern is federal law and state law are not connected in this case and now we’re wedged between two losing issues, so the way to help our districts is to go to the courts and say we’re going to ask questions," Hayes said.
The intention is to not break any law and avoid being sued. Last year, two teachers sued the Escondido Union School District over enforcing the policy. Also last year, California sued a Chino Valley school district for changing its policy to require parents be notified.
"Instead of waiting until being sued, they have gone back to the courts to ask for guidance of how to comply with both laws," Anderson said.
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