Sponsored by: Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ)

Summary:

Currently, no federal funding exists for comprehensive sex education in public schools.  However, three separate federal programs, totaling $176 million this year alone, support abstinence-only programs.  The REAL Act would provide funding to states for medically-accurate, comprehensive sexuality education in the schools that includes information about both abstinence and contraception.

PPNT Position:

Support—Abstinence-only programs have not been proven effective.  In fact, some studies show that students who go through these programs are less likely to use condoms and contraception when they do have sex.  Research has shown, however, that medically-accurate, comprehensive sex education that includes information about abstinence and condoms and contraception works.  Comprehensive sex education has been shown to delay initiation of sex, reduce frequency of sex, and increase contraceptive use.  Additionally, the federal abstinence-only funding policy is out of step with Americans views:  85% agree that all students should receive age-appropriate information about contraception and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).  The REAL Act would provide critical funding for sex education that will help teach students how to protect themselves from unintended pregnancies and STIs.

Latest Action:

03/22/07 – Introduced in the House and Senate.

Recorded Votes:

None.