Substitute House Bill No. 7014 requires local and regional boards of education to create a policy by January 1, 2026, for evaluating library materials that may be subject to removal or restricted access due to complaints. The bill defines "library material" as books and periodicals available for student inquiry, excluding those required for classroom instruction. It introduces the concept of a "qualified complaint," which can be submitted by students or their parents or guardians, and mandates the establishment of a library material review committee that includes educational stakeholders such as the school principal and a certified school librarian. The policy must include a complaint form, a submission process, and ensure that no library material can be removed or restricted without a thorough evaluation by the review committee, which must provide justification for any actions taken.

Additionally, the bill prohibits the removal or restriction of library materials based on partisan content, the identity of the author, or other specified reasons, thereby ensuring decisions are made based on educational appropriateness rather than personal or political biases. It introduces new legal language that prohibits the removal or restriction of materials based on the race, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, or political or religious views of authors or characters, as well as the personal discomfort or moral beliefs of board members. The bill also allows for the inclusion of content related to sexual health while permitting the removal of materials deemed inappropriate for students based on age, development, and grade level. The policy must be reviewed and updated at least every five years, and final decisions regarding library materials must be posted on the school board's website. The Education Committee has reported the bill favorably, reflecting significant support for these changes in the evaluation of educational materials.