Sen. Gary Siplin, the Orlando Democrat sponsoring the controversial "baggy pants" bill, says the NAACP does not understand the issue and is turning it into a racial issue.

“The NAACP's position on this pro-family, pro-education and pro-employment ‘below the waist’ bill fails to understand that the Florida legislature has a constitutional obligation to provide education to our children," Siplin said a statement. “Schools teach our children how to read, write, and do the math. They show them how to type and how to drive. Unfortunately, too many of our middle and high schools aren’t teaching the one critical element kids need to succeed. And that’s self respect."

“Allowing kids to imitate and promote a fashion in our schools that
began in prison to advertise an inmate’s sexual availability is not
only inappropriate, it’s unconscionable. Our children deserve better.

“I find it puzzling that a legendary civil rights advocacy group such
as the NAACP would oppose this fine bill. Although my concern about
saggy britches did not begin as a racial issue – I’ve seen black and
white kids alike don their pants below their waists - it appears the
NAACP is determined to make it one.

“The legislation is designed to teach our children discipline and
respect for themselves and others. The notion that it will lead to more
arrests because of a provision for out-of school suspension upon a 4 th
warning is ludicrous.  Kids need to know there are consequences for
their actions, and they’re given three chances beforehand to get that
message.

“The purpose of school is for our children to learn and graduate and
eventually provide for themselves. And it is the latter that includes
teaching all of our children to dress appropriately for employment and
future opportunities down the road.

“The first impression these children should be taught to leave shouldn’t invoke intimate romps behind prison bars.”