OLYMPIA, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – A new state law requires schools to begin teaching students about the history and contributions of LGBTQ+ people.

Gov. Jay Inslee signed SB 5462, which requires their histories to be taught alongside those of other marginalized groups such as tribes and enslaved people. School districts will adopt curricula using “diverse, equitable, inclusive, age-appropriate instructional materials” under the law. Schools should start adopting the new subject in 2025.

The Seattle Times reports Washington joins California, Oregon, and four other states have similar laws on the books. Teachings in those states focus on issues like the legal fight that led to same-sex marriage and how LGBTQ+ subcultures have gained acceptance.

Advocacy groups say LGBTQ+ students at schools with the curricula experience less bullying, missed school and even suicides.

The bill passed the legislature without any support from Republicans.