DES MOINES, Iowa — It was a late night of debate on the Iowa House floor where many education reforms and priorities were discussed.
The bill that first began long conversations was the inclusion of pregnancy and fetal development education into the curriculum of human growth and development in high school classrooms.
HF 2617 requires this new curriculum to include a video that demonstrates a baby in various stages of fetal development, also known as the "Baby Olivia" video.
"The producer of the Baby Olivia video says that it exists today, the video, to shift public opinion and is dedicated to supporting a culture of life," said Rep. Jennifer Konfrst, D-Polk County. "That's an agenda, that's a political agenda."
That bill passed with a vote of 59-35.
Another piece of legislation that took up a majority of the debate night was regarding changes to the social studies curriculum in Iowa, something that was a priority for House Republicans going into this legislative session.
HF 2544 adds more requirements to what should be taught in social studies classes for grades 1 through 12. It expands on topics like federal, state and local level governments, the rights of citizens and the history of the secular and religious ideals.
"It baffles me that somehow, teaching kids the Mayflower Compact, or the Northwest Ordinance or about Jackie Robinson somehow politicizes the education system," said Rep. Skylar Wheeler, R-Sioux County.
The bill passed with a vote of 58-37.
The night ended with debate over legislation that would make it easier for teachers to carry firearms in schools.
HF 2586 would allow teachers to carry firearms, if they pass safety training, an annual background check and one time in-person legal training.
The bill also requires schools of 8,000 people or more to hire at least one school resource officer.
A majority of those speaking about the legislation were against it, saying they don't believe putting more guns in schools will make it safer.