A House bill would make abstinence more about health than morals.
The legislation would change the wording on state statutes on health education. Though middle-schoolers would still be taught an "abstinence-based" course, it would not be as strict.
Currently, the state requires a curriculum that:
Teaches that abstinence from sexual activity outside of marriage is the expected standard for all school‑age children.
Under the legislation, it would instead be required to:
Teach that abstinence from sexual intercourse is the only certain way to prevent unintended pregnancy, teach that abstinence from sexual activity is the only certain way to reduce the risk of sexual transmission of diseases, including HIV/AIDS, and provide information about the value of abstinence.
Supporters with NARAL North Carolina and Planned Parenthood and opponents with the Christian advocacy group Called2Action will be at a hearing tomorrow morning.
The bill is sponsored by Democratic Reps. Linda Coleman of Wake County and Susan Fisher, Maggie Jeffus, and Melanie Wade Goodwin.
