Gov. Maura Healey signed legislation Monday, Aug. 10, aimed at preventing politically-motivated book removals from Massachusetts schools and public libraries, a measure inspired in part by a 2023 controversial book ban in North Attleborough.
Healey signed An Act Regarding Free Expression during a ceremony at the Franklin Public Library, joined by state Rep. Adam Scanlon (D-North Attleborough), lawmakers, librarians, educators and advocates.
The new law establishes statewide standards for how school and public libraries select materials and respond to challenges, requiring a formal and transparent process before challenged materials can be removed…