State Rep. Joe Harding, the author of Florida’s controversial new parental rights law, has decided to return Disney’s political contributions.
According to the The Capitolist, the Levy County Republican said he had “no other choice” but to give the funding back after Disney came out so forcefully against the Parental Rights in Education Act, which Gov. Ron DeSantis signed on Monday.
The law prohibits school districts and teachers from incorporating lesson plans about sexual orientation or gender identity in grades K-3.
“I’m disappointed to see Disney speak out against this legislation, which is now Florida law,” Harding said.
“As a company whose primary audiences are young children and families, Disney has let us down through their complicity with the false narratives pushed by liberal media, who have repeatedly mischaracterized the content of my legislation.”
“Some radical elements of our society are embracing an idea that parents are unsuited to be parents and that schools have a primary role in determining when and how young children are exposed to sexual topics,” he added. “I invite Disney to reconsider its position and join forces with those of us who support parents first.”
Harding was referring to Disney’s statement following the enactment of the bill that it would fight to get it repealed in the Legislature or overturned in the courts.
It was reported that Harding is returning to Disney and related companies, $3,000.
“Disney has long been a pillar of the Florida economy and provides family-friendly entertainment for both Floridians and tourists of every nation,” Harding added.
“But their rejection of common sense, parents-first principles gives me no other choice but to return their donations. No matter the cost, I will continue to fight for the children in our school systems and their families.”
Harding made the announcement on Tuesday.
On Wednesday, Rep. Randy Maggard, a Pasco County Republican, joined Harding. He opted to return $5,000 that Disney has given him, according to Florida Politics website.
“The Parental Rights in Education Act says that at the youngest ages, K-3rd grade, only age-appropriate material can be taught to students in the classroom,” Maggard said.
“This legislation protects Florida’s youngest schoolchildren and protects the parent-child relationship. I am disappointed to see Disney go along with the disinformation narrative of political activists when they know it to be false. I stand with Florida families and with the parents and families in my district.”
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