Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed a Republican-backed bill on Monday that prohibits many young students from receiving classroom information on sexual orientation and gender identity, prompting rapid condemnation from businesses, Democrats, and advocacy organizations.
The law, dubbed the "don't mention gay" bill by its opponents, has sparked national debate and garnered attention during Sunday's Oscars broadcast, in the face of an increasingly contentious fight about what children should learn about race and gender in school.
Formally known as the "Parental Rights in Education" bill, the Florida measure prohibits public school teachers from discussing sexual orientation or gender identity with children in kindergarten through third grade, or approximately ages 5-9.
Additionally, it prohibits such instruction for pupils in other grades that is "not age or developmentally appropriate."
Parents will be able to sue school districts under the bill, which takes effect on July 1.
"We will continue to recognize that parents have a critical role in their children's education, healthcare, and well-being in the state of Florida," DeSantis told reporters on Monday.
DeSantis, who is vying for re-election this year and is widely expected to run for president in 2024, has joined other Republicans throughout the country in advocating for parents to have greater control over what young children learn in school.
The Republican governor signed the bill into law at a charter school in Spring Hill, north of Tampa, in the presence of young schoolchildren and parents who recounted personal tales demonstrating the necessity for the new law.
Students across Florida have protested the measure, which was earlier labeled "hateful" by U.S. President Joe Biden.
The Oscars' hosts made reference to the law, and best actress winner Jessica Chastain condemned the "discriminatory and xenophobic" legislation sweeping the country in her acceptance speech.
Following DeSantis's signature of the bill on Monday, a spokeswoman for Walt Disney Co stated that the measure "should never have been enacted and signed into law. As a business, our goal is to see this law overturned by the legislature or struck down in the courts."
Walt Disney World is the company's largest theme park, located in Orlando, Florida. Additionally, it operates film studios, broadcast and cable television networks, streaming services, cruise lines, and retail merchandise as part of its extensive business.
Lambda Legal, a civil rights organization, said it will challenge the law in court. "Our youth are not pawns in a political game," CEO Kevin Jennings said in a statement.
