Mussman Highlights Need for Comprehensive Sex Education

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – To combat high rates of teen dating violence, sexually transmitted diseases and teen pregnancy among Illinois students, state Rep. Michelle Mussman, D-Schaumburg introduced a new resolution to highlight the need for comprehensive sex education.

“Students need access to accurate, thorough information about sex, and must to be taught respect for boundaries in relationships,” said Mussman. “With an alarming report from the Sexuality Information and Education Council stating that Illinois teens experience higher rates of dating and sexual violence than the national average, it is clear that more must be done to teach teenagers about consent and the bodily autonomy of individuals to prepare them to make informed and sensible choices.”

Mussman’s House Resolution 660 expresses support for comprehensive sex education in Illinois schools. Comprehensive sex education requires curriculum to fully meet the seven topics of the National Sexuality Education Standards: Anatomy and Physiology, Puberty and Adolescent Development, Identity, Pregnancy and Reproduction, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and HIV, Healthy Relationships (including consent education) and Personal Safety.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found a 12% reduction in sexual risk-taking among students who had comprehensive sex education.

“When teens are given the tools they need to make smart decisions about their health we see lower rates of dating violence, sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancy,” continued Mussman. “I will continue working to ensure our students receive the comprehensive education they deserve instead of antiquated abstinence-only curriculum.”

Mussman represents the 56th District, which contains portions of Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Elk Grove Village, Hanover Park, Roselle, Rolling Meadows and Palatine.