A proposal presented to Utah lawmakers would give parents the choice between two sex education classes for their children.

One class would be abstinence-based and would also offer information about issues like sexually transmitted diseases. The other would emphasize abstinence and offer facts about STD prevention but also would provide facts about contraceptive options.

Melissa Bird, executive director of Planned Parenthood Action Council, says the proposed legislation "addresses the needs of all parents."

But the Eagle Forum opposed the bill, calling it "inappropriate and unnecessary."

"It should be addressed at the right time in the right way," said Dalane England, the group's vice president of issues.

Rep. Lynn Hemingway, D-Salt Lake City, presented his proposal to a legislative interim committee on Wednesday. More hearings on the proposal, which aims to let educators instruct students on birth-control options "without fear of reprimand," are planned.

"This isn't a moral issue anymore," Hemingway said. "This is a health issue."

Rep. Chris Johnson, D-Salt Lake City, said the state can't ignore the issue.

"Kids are going to be sexually active," she said.

The current State Office of Education rule states that educators may instruct about contraception options with prior parental consent.

But some say students are not getting adequate sex education because teachers are afraid of being accused of advocating sex. They say educators are erring on the side of caution by eliminating important information.

Hemingway's bill is modeled after one in North Carolina, where a program is offered to grades seven through 12.