The Supreme Court ruled 6–3 that Maryland parents may opt their children out of school lessons involving LGBTQ-inclusive storybooks, saying the school district’s policy likely infringes on religious rights under the First Amendment. The decision reverses lower court rulings that had supported Montgomery County Public Schools.
The case began after the district introduced inclusive books in 2022 but later eliminated a prior policy allowing opt-outs, citing classroom disruption. Parents, supported by religious liberty groups, argued they were being forced to expose their children to material that violated their beliefs.
In granting a preliminary injunction, the justices ordered the district to notify parents before using the books and allow opt-outs while litigation proceeds. Justice Neil Gorsuch, writing for the majority, emphasized that compelled participation in these lessons could burden religious exercise.
School officials and civil rights advocates contend the materials are secular and important for inclusion. The ruling could influence similar curriculum disputes nationwide.
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