A Hudson Valley lawmaker is introducing legislation banning Critical Race Theory from being taught in state schools.

Republican Assemblyman Colin Schmitt spoke at a news conference Monday in Washingtonville about the legal and academic concepts surrounding race and racism in the United States.

Schmitt says he's introducing the law after hearing from concerned parents throughout New York.

"Critical Race Theory is the indoctrination of students and seeks to destroy the core fundamental principle that has been universal for all Americans – the pursuit of the American Dream. CRT sets us back and says that race and the color of our skin is the most important thing," says Schmitt.

Critical Race Theory first emerged in the late 1970s-early 80s and examines social, cultural and legal issues as they relate to race.

Advocates say its theories are part of the timely discussions about racism and are considered important under the Civil Rights movement.