Utah's Republican Gov. Gary Herbert vetoed a controversial sex education bill that would have permitted only abstinence education to be taught in schools.

The measure would also have prohibited any teaching on contraceptives, pre-marital sex, or homosexuality.

Supporters of the legislation argued that sex education should be left to parents, not teachers.

But Herbert contended the bill went too far, saying public school instruction should supplement, not replace, lessons taught at home.

"If HB 363 were to become law, parents would no longer have the option the overwhelming majority is currently choosing for their children," he said.

"I am unwilling to conclude that the state knows better than Utah's parents as to what is best for their children," he said.

"In order for parents to take on more responsibility, they need more information, more involvement, and more choice -- not less. I cannot sign a bill that deprives parents of their choice," Herbert added.