SRES 372 United States Senate · 118th Congress

A resolution expressing concern about the spreading problem of book banning and the proliferation of threats to freedom of expression in the United States.

This Senate resolution (SRES 372) expresses concern about the rising trend of book bans in U.S. schools and libraries, citing PEN America data showing nearly 3,400 book removals affecting 1,557 titles from July 2022-June 2023. It specifically highlights disproportionate bans targeting books with LGBTQ+ themes (36%) or content about race/racism (37%), including titles like *The Handmaid’s Tale* and *Maus*. The resolution urges local schools and libraries to follow established guidelines (e.g., from the American Library Association) when addressing book challenges and reaffirms support for First Amendment rights to read and access diverse perspectives. It does not create new laws but formally calls for protecting students’ access to literature reflecting diverse viewpoints.
Bill status in committee 1 of 4 stages cleared
Introduction
Sep 2023
Committee Review
Floor Vote
President
Introduced Sep 27, 2023 Last action Sep 27, 2023