By Anthony Izaguirre - The Associated Press
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis plans to expand to all grade levels the controversial state law known as
Don't Say Gay
, which now bans discussion of sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary schools in a new ideological push before he introduces , predictably, his candidacy for 2024 to represent the Republican Party in the presidential elections.
The proposal, which does not require legislative approval, is scheduled for a vote in April before the state Board of Education and was introduced by the state Department of Education, both led by officials appointed by the governor.
The rule change
will prohibit lessons on sexual orientation and gender identity in grades four through twelve,
unless required by existing state standards or as part of reproductive health lessons, which are optional.
[DeSantis strikes down Florida's Disney Autonomous District in punishment for opposing 'Don't Say Gay' law]
Current law restricts these conversations or lessons from kindergarten through third grade.
The change in the norm that he now foresees was anticipated by the Orlando Sentinel newspaper.
DeSantis has leaned on cultural divides in his run for the White House, while pursuing a conservative agenda that targets what he calls the insertion of inappropriate subjects in schools.
The Parental Rights in Education Act sparked a wide backlash across the country, with critics saying it marginalizes LGBTQ people and their presence in society.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis in a file photo dated Aug. 8, 2022.Getty Images
Spokesmen for the governor's office and the Department of Education did not immediately respond to an emailed request for comment.