New Jersey’s Governor signs the Freedom to Read Act
Book bans have been back for some years. It’s a popular attack and culture war tactic for the right and usually targets books about and by minorities. Some states are pushing back and New Jersey joins Illinois and Minnesota in signing laws that prohibit the banning of books at public schools and libraries.
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed into law Monday the Freedom to Read Act which not just prohibits bans but also protects librarians who obey state law.
This year has seen 13 states introduce legislation to disrupt library services and limit the material provided. Over 10,000 books were removed in 2023-24 according to PEN America. 8,000 were pulled in Florida and Iowa alone where laws to restrict books were passed.
The New Jersey law takes effect in a year from the governor’s signing but librarians and state education commissioner are allowed to begin implementing it immediately.
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Source: Graphic Policy
