Kansas Senate Passes “Given Name Act” to Protect Parental Rights and Employee Free Speech in Education

On Wednesday, the Kansas Senate passed Senate Bill No. 76, also known as the “Given Name Act.” The bill, which requires school district and postsecondary institution employees to use a student’s name and pronouns consistent with their biological sex as listed on their birth certificate, passed as amended with a vote of 26 in favor and 14 against.

The legislation mandates that employees must use a student’s name and pronouns in alignment with the biological sex listed on the student’s birth certificate, unless the employee has written consent from the student’s parent or guardian. It also ensures that employees are protected from adverse employment action for refusing to use names or pronouns inconsistent with a student’s biological sex.

Introduced on January 27, 2025, the bill passed through the Senate after undergoing a committee report and amendments.

Senate Bill 76 underscores the importance of free speech, academic freedom, and parental authority in educational settings while also allowing legal recourse for individuals harmed by violations.