Signal Massachusetts governor signs Freedom to Read Law to prevent book bans

Summary

Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey signed the Freedom to Read Law, aimed at preventing book bans in schools and public libraries. The law establishes a consistent, fair and transparent community-involved process for reviewing challenged library materials statewide. It also includes provisions protecting librarians and educators who select books in good faith from politically motivated censorship attempts. Those provisions are meant to safeguard the professional autonomy of librarians and educators. The law is regarded as a key state-level policy for protecting intellectual freedom.