Ohio Enacts Parental Rights Education Bill

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine recently signed House Bill 8, known as the 'Parents’ Bill of Rights,' which mandates schools to notify parents of any changes in their child's behavior, including requests to identify as a gender different from their biological sex. The law also requires parental consent for lessons involving sexuality and controversial topics, as well as for any health care services provided to students. Advocates argue that the legislation enhances parental involvement and protects children from being kept in the dark about sensitive issues, while opponents warn it could endanger LGBTQ+ students by 'outing' them to unsupportive families. The bill has drawn comparisons to similar laws in other states and has faced criticism from organizations advocating for LGBTQ rights. Under this law, public schools must also allow students to leave for religious instruction, with transportation provided by parents. The law takes effect in April, further shaping the landscape of parental rights in education across Ohio.