Responsible education about life act introduced in the House and Senate.

In February 2005, Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ) introduced the Responsible Education About Life Act (REAL). It was then introduced in May 2005 in the House of Representatives by Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA). SIECUS' technical assistance, educational materials, and advocacy were crucial in moving these efforts forward. This bill would create a funding stream administered by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services that would award $206 million per year to states for comprehensive sexuality education that is age-appropriate, medically accurate, and stresses abstinence while also educating young people about contraception. Funded programs would also emphasize the importance of family communication, responsible decision-making, and negotiation skills.

SIECUS took part in a press briefing to announce the introduction of the Responsible Education About Life Act held by Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) and Senator Frank Lautenberg (D-NJ). We were joined by students from California, New Jersey, and other states, as well as representatives from public health and advocacy organizations that support comprehensive sexuality education. Students spoke about their experience and the need for science-based sexuality education.