House Republicans once again shut down the deliberative process and gave House Democrats an ultimatum on S49, the Parents Bill of Rights: We could debate the bill or we could offer amendments, but not both. We were informed that the Rules Chairman would call the question and force the body to vote without hearing Democratic amendments. 

North Carolinians were not able to hear the improvements that House Democrats had for the bill -- improvements that we believe many people would support, or would at least like to know about. These are just some of the amendments that House Republicans voted against even considering:

• An amendment from Rep. Prather that would add the Student Bill of Rights, which among other things requires due process in discipline, individualized educational plans and access to mental health and substance abuse services;

• An amendment from Rep. Morey that would ensure the provisions of S49 also applied to private schools that receive voucher funding;

• An amendment from Rep. von Haefen that would fully fund classrooms as one of the rights of parents

“Our democracy functions best when everyone is heard, especially the minority party,” House Democratic Leader Robert Reives said. “I am concerned that the majority continues to push through consequential legislation without allowing everyone to speak and offer positive changes. It is a disservice to this body and to the people of North Carolina who elected representatives to be their voice in this process.”