Senate OKs bill warning parents of sexually explicit books

(AP) Virginia’s Senate has approved a bill aimed at giving parents more control over what their children read in school.

The bill backed by Republican House Speaker William Howell would require schools to notify parents if their children will be assigned to read a book that includes sexually explicit material and provide an alternative if the parent objects.

The measure passed with a 22-17 vote Tuesday after a spirited debate. It unanimously passed the House last month. It’s thought to be the first of its kind in the country.

Democratic Sen. Adam Ebbin called the bill the “first step toward encouraging censorship.”

Supporters said nothing would prevent teachers from still using those books in the classroom.

A spokesman for Gov. Terry McAuliffe has declined to say whether he supports the bill.