Groups come up short in referendum to repeal teaching gay contributions

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A referendum drive has failed that was aimed at repealing a new state law requiring school textbooks and history lessons to include the contributions of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender Americans.

Conservative groups, including the Pacific Justice Institute and California Family Council, were unable to collect the 505,000 signatures needed 90 days after the governor signed SB 48 to put the measure on hold and place the issue on the ballot.

‘The abbreviated timeline and lack of funding made this attempt extremely difficult from its beginning,’ said a statement by the council, noting the law will take effect Jan. 1.

Brad Dacus, president of the institute, said legislators who voted for the new law will feel the heat in next year’s elections.

‘The legislators will pay a price for the disrespect and intolerance of parents’ viewpoints,’ Dacus said. ‘Parents across the state were outraged that the state is promoting indoctrination of viewpoints that many parents disagree with.’

--Patrick McGreevy