Gov. Tim Kaine's decision to cut state funding for abstinence-only sex education has triggered criticism and praise from both sides of the political spectrum, touching off new debate about the information high school students should be taught in schools.
According to The Washington Post, Kaine, "cited recent studies finding that teenagers should also be taught about birth control and condoms to protect against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases," as basis for his decision. Kaine eliminated a "$275,000 matching grant for the federal program that provided funds for 14 nonprofit groups that teach abstinence-only education."
The cuts were also made in an attempt to reduce Virginia's looming budget shortfall.
Effective sex education needs to inform students about contraceptives and safe-sex options in addition to the benefits of abstinence.
The reality of the situation is that many students are sexually active by the age of 18. More and more adolescents are choosing to have sex, despite the advice of teachers and parents. If young people are going to have sex, it is best to educate them on all their options.
People who want to have sex will have sex, regardless of their knowledge level.
Likewise, those who have made the decision to remain abstinent will not be swayed by sex education that includes instruction on contraceptives and safe sex options.
Abstinence should definitely be an element in every sex education program, but it shouldn't be the only one.
Kaine's decision means the state of Virginia will no longer match federal funds for abstinence-only education, it does not eliminate those programs altogether.
Because of the deficit in Virginia, budget cuts from a variety of programs are inevitable. However, it is better that the state takes money away from abstinence-only sex education, instead of cutting more vital programs.
There are other things the state could be taking money away from. Virginia is now the 14th state refusing to support abstinence-only education.
The decision to cut money from abstinence-only education will help make up for our budget shortfall, in addition to providing students with more information when it comes to making decisions about sex.
The editorial board is composed of Amie Steele, Joe Kendall, Saria Haider, Laurel Colella and Sara Mitchell.