ND lawmakers consider codifying parents’ rights
BISMARCK, ND (KFYR) — Some conservative parents believe they should play a bigger role in their children’s education. Now they’re hoping North Dakota lawmakers will pass a handful of bills that they say would put the interests of parents first.
Children: the most important part in the life of most parents.
“I believe it is important to uphold the basic rights of parents to take care of their children and protect them from harmful information that they cannot be exposed to in their development,” said Patricia Leno of North Dakota.
That’s why Rep. Cole Christensen introduced House Bill 1362 — a bill that would codify the right of parents to exercise primary control over the care, supervision, upbringing and upbringing of their child.
“I believe that family is the backbone of society and if we want to have a strong nation, we need a strong family. And the rights of parents must be protected,” said Representative Cole Christensen, R-Rogers.
Another bill, House Bill 1403, would entitle parents to compensation if they enter and win litigation with a government agency about their children.
“This law would protect parents in our state by ensuring that fundamental rights are protected. And if they’re hurt, they’re allowed to take appropriate remedial action,” said Representative Matt Heilman, R District 7.
But House Bills 1362 and 1403 raised some concerns – particularly the pedagogical parts of them.
“Teachers have no idea what could lead a parent to believe that parental rights as outlined in this bill have been violated. Even if the parents’ lawsuit is not compelling, the court dismisses it, and the school district recovers the services of its attorneys, the relationship between that teacher and student can be irretrievably damaged,” said Nick Archuleta, president of North Dakota United.
Last week, the House of Representatives passed legislation in a party-linked vote that would ban children from attending drag shows in North Dakota. Incidentally, House minority leader Josh Boschee noted that the bill stripped power from parents.
“In fact, I think it’s the parents who have their children’s best interests in mind and so I hope we leave that up to the parents,” Rep. Boschee, D-Fargo, said Jan. 26 in reference to House Bill 1333.
Rep. Christensen doesn’t think his bill and the drag show law conflict.
“There are a lot of things that the state sets guidelines for to help parents and set guidelines for the good of society,” said Representative Christensen.
MP Boschee could not be reached for comment on the child safety bills.
The House Human Services Committee did not respond to any of the bills heard Monday.
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