Sex ed training for Utah parents bill passes Senate

A bill meant to help Utah parents teach their kids about sex is halfway through its journey to become law.

The Senate unanimously passed SB39 on Wednesday, meaning it now moves to the House for consideration. The bill would require the state school board to develop and offer optional online training to parents on how to educate their kids about sex. It would not change how sex education is taught in schools.

Bill sponsor Sen. Stuart Reid, R-Ogden, said the program would be a tool for parents. School districts would also have printed copies of the materials available for parents.

"In the past, our discussion has been around what should be taught in schools and who should teach what and I think we missed the point," Reid said during initial floor debate Tuesday. "The point is, this is such a matter that first and foremost should be taught in the home. There's a science to it, but there's also values that should be partnered with that science and obviously, that can't be discussed in government settings, but certainly it can be discussed in the home."

On Tuesday, Sen. Patricia Jones, D-Holladay, questioned whether it would truly be possible to create something appropriate for all those of various ages who might access it, but she voted for the bill anyway, saying she feels it's important parents and grandparents to have accurate information to help them explain such concepts.