AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - A Senate panel is considering proposed legislation prohibiting organizations linked to abortion providers from teaching sexual education in Texas schools.
The contentious measure by tea party Sen. Ken Paxton was hailed Tuesday by abortion opponents as a way to "exclude Planned Parenthood" from Texas classrooms.
But just how much school instruction Planned Parenthood provides is murky at best.
Witnesses lined up before the Senate Education Committee to criticize the group for online materials and guidance it provides teens. But they provided little evidence of Planned Parenthood's direct involvement in classrooms.
Paxton, a Republican from McKinney, also invited a small group of witnesses who preached the power of teaching abstinence.
Lawmakers in 2011 outlawed state funds for organizations linked to abortion providers. Subsequent lawsuits by Planned Parenthood sputtered.
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Posted: 05/08/13 - The Sherman Public Library is very excited about our upcoming Summer Reading Club for children and teens. Children ages birth-11 can Dig into Reading and join the Youth Summer Reading Club. The theme for the Teen Summer Reading Club this year is Beneath the Surface and it is open to teens ages 12-18. Read More
Posted: 05/07/13 - DURANT, Okla. – Regent Terry Matlock will deliver remarks at Southeastern Oklahoma State University’s Spring Commencement, scheduled for Saturday, May 11, at Paul Laird Field. The ceremony (for all schools) will begin at 10 a.m. A reception will follow at 11:30 a.m. in the Visual & Performing Arts Center. Read More
Posted: 05/06/13 - SHERMAN, TEXAS—Members of the Austin College Class of 2013 are counting down the days until graduation—with both excitement and trepidation. Austin College President Marjorie Hass will present diplomas to more than 340 bachelor’s degree candidates and 18 Master of Arts in Teaching degree candidates who will take part in graduation events May 18 and 19 on campus. Read More
