The U.S. House has passed H.R. 2616, known as the Stopping Indoctrination and Protecting Kids Act, legislation introduced by Michigan Congressman and Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg.

Supporters say the bill is aimed at increasing transparency in K-12 schools, strengthening parental rights, and preventing federal education funding from being used to promote what lawmakers describe as political or ideological agendas in classrooms.

Walberg said some schools are withholding important information from parents regarding their children’s wellbeing and development, including issues involving gender identity.

“Parents should never be the last to know,” Walberg said in a statement. “Families deserve honesty and transparency when it comes to their children’s education.”

The legislation combines provisions from Walberg’s PROTECT Kids Act and the Say No to Indoctrination Act introduced by Representative Burgess Owens.

According to supporters, the bill would require schools to keep parents informed about key decisions involving students, prohibit federal funding from being used to promote gender ideology or compel ideological beliefs, and establish penalties for schools that withhold information from families.

The measure also aligns with executive actions issued during the Trump administration recognizing two sexes under federal policy.

Republicans backing the legislation say the bill restores parental authority in education decisions. Critics argue similar proposals could limit support for LGBTQ students and restrict classroom discussions.

The bill now moves to the Senate for consideration.