Republican lawmakers in Tennessee have passed a bill that would require public school students to watch a video on fetal development produced by an anti-abortion group, or something similar. The bill, sponsored by Republican Sen. Janice Bowling, has faced opposition from Democrats who argue that the video is scientifically inaccurate and propaganda. The legislation also prohibits parents from opting their children out of watching the video and mandating that it be shown in schools as part of the family life curriculum.
The video, created by anti-abortion organization Live Action, depicts fetal development in the womb and is narrated as if the fetus, referred to as Baby Olivia, is speaking. However, some educators and physicians have criticized the video, claiming that it is deceptive and manipulative. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists has also denounced the video as anti-abortion misinformation. Despite these criticisms, Live Action has been pushing for similar legislation in other states, with North Dakota being the first to adopt the idea last year.
The bill’s passage in Tennessee reflects a nationwide trend of conservative states pushing for anti-abortion education in schools. In addition to the fetal development video, lawmakers in Tennessee also passed a bill that would require annual firearm safety instruction in public schools. Governor Bill Lee, who has never vetoed a bill since taking office in 2019 and has shown his opposition to abortion, is expected to sign the legislation into law. This aligns with Lee’s previous actions, such as enacting a sweeping abortion ban and approving more tax dollars for anti-abortion organizations.
While the Baby Olivia legislation has seen progress in Tennessee, it has faced obstacles in other states. West Virginia’s Senate passed a similar bill, but the legislation did not clear the House of Delegates before the Legislature adjourned. Lawmakers in Iowa are debating whether to remove specific references to the Baby Olivia video and instead require any video depicting the “humanity of the unborn child.” The bill has not advanced in Kentucky and Missouri, showing a mixed reception to the controversial anti-abortion education initiative.
Despite the criticism and opposition, the Tennessee bill requiring students to watch the anti-abortion video is likely to be signed into law by Governor Bill Lee. The legislation reflects the broader conservative push for anti-abortion education in schools and further solidifies the state’s stance on reproductive rights. As the debate continues in other states, the impact of these initiatives on students and parents remains a topic of contention and discussion among lawmakers and advocacy groups.
