Book Banning: The Post-Pico Epidemic upon Nationwide Academic Curricula

Abstract

This Note explores the growing wave of book bans across the United States, highlighting the increasing role of state legislators in advancing policies that restrict access to literature in public schools. While historically driven by private individuals or local challenges, contemporary bans are now often state-sanctioned, with states like Texas, Florida, Missouri, Utah, and South Carolina leading the movement. These actions not only suppress specific titles but also target entire genres, disproportionately affecting books dealing with race, gender, and LGBTQ+ identities. Drawing on sources such as the PEN America Index of School Book Bans, the Note analyzes the historical context of censorship efforts and their legal implications. It critically examines the Supreme Court\u27s efforts to set constitutional limits on content-based restrictions in schools, and the ways in which lower courts and school districts have circumvented those guidelines. Ultimately, the Note argues that this resurgence in censorship undermines educational integrity and First Amendment protections, leaving lasting damage to public education and free expression nationwide