The "Freedom to Read Protections and Respect for School Library Media Specialist Autonomy Act" aims to enhance student access to diverse and developmentally appropriate reading materials while affirming the professional autonomy of school library media specialists in South Carolina. The bill defines key terms, such as "instructional materials" and "school library media specialist," and asserts that the freedom to read is a constitutionally protected right. It establishes that public school students have the right to access a variety of materials and that no individual or group can infringe upon this right without following established legal processes.

Additionally, the bill mandates the creation of a Material Review Committee in each school district to address formal challenges to instructional materials. This committee must include a certified school library media specialist and may include other members to represent the district's schools. The bill also protects library media specialists and educators from intimidation or retaliation while performing their duties, particularly regarding the curation of materials. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
02/19/2025: 59-31-55
Latest Version: 59-31-55