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Alabama Senate Passes Controversial Abstinence-Only Education Bill

2/20/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 19, 2026, the Alabama Senate passed Senate Bill 209, sponsored by Sen. Shay Shelnutt, mandating abstinence-based sex education and leaving enforcement to the Alabama Attorney General.
The bill prohibits teaching contraception, abortion, and sexually explicit materials and would take effect on October 1 if the House approves.
Opponents, including Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, argue it limits health information and discourages discussions, noting students often seek information on social media.

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Story summary

On February 19, 2026, the Alabama Senate passed Senate Bill 209, sponsored by Sen. Shay Shelnutt, mandating abstinence-based sex education and leaving enforcement to the Alabama Attorney General.
The bill prohibits teaching contraception, abortion, and sexually explicit materials and would take effect on October 1 if the House approves.
Opponents, including Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, argue it limits health information and discourages discussions, noting students often seek information on social media.