Graham proposes bill to recognize parental rights
Representative Jenny Graham (R-Spokane) wants to make sure parents' rights are well-established at the state level.
COURTESY PHOTO/OFFICE OF REP. JENNY GRAHAM
OLYMPIA - Representative Jenny Graham (R-Spokane) proposed legislation in the Washington House this week that lists a specific set of rights that parents should have as they relate to the care, well-being, education, and upbringing of their children.
“It's time for the state to officially recognize the rights of parents,” said Graham in a release by her office.
The release states that Graham is calling the bill the "Parental Bill of Rights" and her legislation is needed to help parents take back their intended role as guardians, protectors and raisers of children.
The bill, House Bill 1601, includes parents’ rights to direct education and care, direct the upbringing and moral or religious training, access and review all education records and make health care decisions unless otherwise prohibited by law.
The bill has been referred to the House Civil Rights and Judiciary Committee where Graham serves as the Assistant Ranking Member.
"There isn't a lack of interest from the parents that I've spoken to," said Graham. "Quite the opposite. This issue of the state raising our kids and taking more and more control away from parents is something that is concerning for the communities and parents in my district."