Sen. Tim Scott introduces bill to stop schools from changing child's gender without parental consent

GOP Sen. Tim Scott is introducing legislation to prevent elementary or middle schools from changing students' gender identity without parental consent. 

"Sadly, radical and secretive gender policies have shut parents out of the conversation and broken their trust," the South Carolina lawmaker said Tuesday in introducing the measure. "My bill will safeguard parental rights, improve the crucial relationship between parents and schools, and ensure that children can learn in an environment free from activist ideology." 

The bill – titled the "Parental Rights Over the Education and Care of Their (PROTECT) Kids Act" – is to ensure that schools do not keep students' gender identity or transition secret from parents, Scott's congressional office says.

If passed and signed into law it would stop any elementary or middle school that receives federal funds from "changing a minor child's gender markers or preferred name" or "allowing a child to change the child's sex-based accommodations, including locker rooms or bathrooms" without parental consent.

Several states have passed legislation or issued guidance dealing with parental consent and children's transitioning in schools. The topic is being debated in several ongoing court cases.