Planned Parenthood Illinois Action Statement in Support of Ensuring Health and Safety for All Youth Act

Springfield, IL. - Today, Planned Parenthood Illinois Action and advocates call for the passage of the Ensuring Health and Safety for all Youth Act. In 2021, the Illinois General Assembly and Governor Pritzker approved new learning standards for age-appropriate, medically-accurate, comprehensive personal health and safety education in grades K-5 and age-appropriate, medically-accurate, comprehensive sexual health education in grades 6-12.However, the Illinois State Board of Education reported that nearly 70% of Illinois school districts did not provide such critical instruction in the 21-22 school year. This Act will ensure all students in Illinois public schools be provided with the instruction they deserve.

Attributed to Jennifer Welch, President and CEO of Planned Parenthood Illinois Action

“We were pleased the Illinois General Assembly passed the Keep Youth Safe and Healthy Act in 2022, but the full impact of the legislation can not be felt until it is a requirement for all students to receive age-appropriate and medically accurate health information. It’s disturbing to know that in August, 2022, Illinois State Board of Education reported that nearly 70% of Illinois school districts do not provide any form of personal health and safety education or sexual health education. This is a disservice to young people and their futures. The Ensuring Health and Safety for all Youth Act levels the field for Illinois students to receive accurate sexual and health information. This is a positive step forward in making a brighter future for our youth.”

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Planned Parenthood Illinois Action (PPIA) is an independent, nonpartisan, 501(c)4 not-for-profit organization formed as the advocacy and political arm of Planned Parenthood of Illinois. PPIA engages in educational and electoral activity, including public education campaigns, grassroots organizing, and legislative advocacy on behalf of commonsense policies that protect and foster the sexual and reproductive health and rights of individuals, families, and communities.

Media Contact:
Mary Jane Maharry
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