Tennessee is on the verge of implementing a new law that would mandate public school students to watch a three-minute AI-generated video on fetal development created by an anti-abortion group. The legislation, known as the 'Baby Olivia Act,' was passed by the state Senate in a 21-6 vote and is now awaiting approval from Republican Gov. Bill Lee.
Under the proposed law, schools will be required to incorporate the video, or an equivalent, into their family life curriculum. This curriculum will cover topics such as human growth, development, and sexuality through computer-generated animation or high-definition ultrasound depicting early fetal development.
Republican supporters argue that the video is medically accurate and approved by a committee of medical professionals and experts. However, House Democrats have raised concerns citing research from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists that contradicts these claims.
Opponents of the legislation, including State Minority Leader Sen. Raumesh Akbari, argue that students deserve unbiased and medically accurate sex education to make informed decisions. House Democrat Rep. Aftyn Behn criticized the video as 'incredibly problematic' and contradictory to the principles of education.
Despite the controversy, the bill passed in the House with a 67-23 vote. Republican Sen. Janice Bowling, a sponsor of the Senate bill, praised the legislation for providing a scientifically accurate portrayal of human development in the womb.
The video, narrated by AI, chronicles the stages of pregnancy from fertilization to fetal development. Live Action, the group behind the video, consulted with medical experts to ensure accuracy.
However, Tennessee Democratic Rep. Justin Jones criticized the legislation as an attempt to merge religious beliefs with science and present students with 'medically inaccurate' information.
Once signed into law, the mandate will take effect in the 2024-2025 school year. This decision follows Tennessee's ban on abortions at all stages of pregnancy, except in cases where the pregnant woman's life is at risk.
Tennessee will join North Dakota in implementing such legislation, with similar bills under consideration in Iowa, West Virginia, Kentucky, and Missouri.
