California has refused to take federal money to teach abstinence-only education. But a House bill to extend funding for these programs might cause California to change its mind. KPBS reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.
The bill would allow states to use the money for abstinence-only classes, or for more comprehensive sex education programs that also promote abstinence.
The measure would also require programs to show results in reducing pregnancy and HIV rates.
That might be a problem for abstinence-only programs. That's according to UCLA professor of psychiatry Mary Jane Rotheram.
Rotheram : There's only one abstinence-based program that has been demonstrated effective, and only under very, very specific circumstances.
On the other hand, Rotheram says a number of studies show comprehensive programs decrease the likelihood of unprotected sex.
The measure is attached to a bill President Bush has promised to veto.
Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
