Attorney General James Uthmeier and Florida Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. have signed a Memorandum of Agreement to collaborate on protecting parental rights in the state’s education system. This partnership aims to safeguard students from unlawful practices by school systems and ensure parents’ involvement in their children’s education.
“With this collaboration between the Office of Parental Rights and the Florida Department of Education, we are putting the power in parents’ hands,” said Attorney General James Uthmeier. “The rights of parents are non-negotiable in Florida, and they deserve an education system that works for them without an inappropriate, politically driven agenda. It was an honor to sign this important agreement with Commissioner Diaz.”
Commissioner Manny Diaz, Jr. echoed these sentiments, stating: “Florida is the Parental Rights state, and I am proud to work with Attorney General Uthmeier to enhance the power of Florida parents. I am proud to sign this Memorandum of Understanding with the Attorney General’s Office today to further bolster our efforts to support the rights of parents and to protect Florida’s children.”
Additionally, Attorney General Uthmeier announced an expansion of a reporting portal for parental rights violations. The portal allows parents to report businesses targeting minors with flavored vapes or youth-focused advertising near schools. Parents can upload evidence directly for investigation by the Attorney General’s Office.
This announcement was made at a regional vaping enforcement symposium held by the Attorney General’s Office at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in Pensacola. This event is part of a statewide series aimed at training law enforcement officers on enforcing new legislation concerning vaping devices appealing to minors.
The enforcement initiative is partially funded by a $79 million settlement with JUUL Labs, Inc., following litigation over marketing tactics directed at minors. As part of this settlement, JUUL must adhere to strict advertising restrictions in Florida.
The efforts align with existing laws such as the Parents’ Bill of Rights and the Parental Rights in Education Act aimed at child protection in Florida.
For more information about parental rights or to report violations, visit MyFloridaLegal.com/ParentalRights.
