
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signs a new “Parents’ Bill of Rights” into law, strengthening parental involvement in education and sparking debate on student privacy.
At a Glance
- Ohio’s new law enhances parental rights in education, requiring schools to inform parents about changes in their child’s behavior.
- The legislation mandates parental consent for lessons on sexual or controversial topics.
- Schools must now allow students to leave for religious instruction, provided it doesn’t interfere with core curriculum.
- The law faces criticism from education groups and LGBTQ+ advocates, who label it as “Ohio’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Bill”.
Ohio Bolsters Parental Rights in Education
In a move that has ignited both praise and controversy, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed the “Parents’ Bill of Rights” into law. The new law mandates that schools directly inform parents about their child’s academic progress and overall well-being, shifting reporting obligations away from government entities and towards a more involved partnership between parents and schools.
Under the new law, teachers and school officials are required to inform parents about any changes in their child’s behavior, including regarding gender identity requests. This provision aims to ensure that parents are kept in the loop about significant developments in their child’s life at school.
Here’s what Ohio’s ‘Parents’ Bill of Rights’ will require https://t.co/izvaFFqEqp pic.twitter.com/daHiRuFuRn
— NBC4 Columbus (@nbc4i) January 13, 2025
Parental Consent and Curriculum Changes
One of the most significant aspects of the new legislation is the requirement for parental consent for school lessons on sexual or controversial topics, including gender education. This change gives parents more control over the content their children are exposed to in the classroom.
“Parents know and love their children best, which is why they are best suited to make decisions about their children’s upbringing, education, and care. Thankfully, HB 8 rightfully recognizes this truth as a fundamental right,” said Alliance Defending Freedom Senior Counsel Matt Sharp following DeWine’s signing of the bill. “This critical legislation safeguards children from secret social transition by ensuring school officials do not hide crucial information from parents about their child’s mental health and well-being. It increases parental involvement in their child’s education by letting parents opt their child out of objectionable sexual content.”
The law also includes a provision allowing students to leave school for religious instruction, provided it does not interfere with core curriculum time. This aspect of the bill has been praised by religious education advocates.
Healthcare and Sexuality Content Restrictions
The new legislation requires schools to list all healthcare provided and allow parents to opt-out, except in emergencies or for students with disability care plans. Additionally, sexuality content is now defined and restricted, with parents able to review materials and opt-out students. Such content is banned entirely for students in kindergarten through third grade.
“Whether it’s a decision about health care, a decision about when a child has a discussion about sexuality, or a decision over whether a child can access a religious released time program like LifeWise Academy, HB 8 puts parents back in control,” said Center for Christian Virtue President Aaron Baer.
These changes reflect a broader trend of increasing parental involvement in education decisions, particularly concerning sensitive topics like sexuality and healthcare.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite its support from conservative groups, the bill has faced significant criticism from education groups and LGBTQ+ advocates. Opponents have labeled it as “Ohio’s ‘Don’t Say Gay’ Bill,” expressing concerns about its potential impact on LGBTQ+ students and their rights to privacy and support within the school system.
“It’s deeply disappointing that Gov. DeWine has signed HB 8 when it was opposed by educators and the LGBTQ+ community alike because it punishes teachers and staff for supporting LGBTQ+ students who are already targets of bullying and harassment,” said Equality Ohio Executive Director Dwayne Steward.
Critics argue that the law could undermine the rights and confidentiality of youth, particularly those who may be struggling with their identity. However, supporters maintain that the legislation addresses concerns about children in abusive households and does not infringe on necessary protections.
Implications and Future Outlook
As Ohio school districts prepare to draft and implement new policies by the law’s effective date, the debate surrounding parental rights in education continues to intensify. The legislation has sparked discussions about the role of schools and social workers in children’s lives, with advocates arguing that parents should have the primary responsibility for their children’s care.
“If you’re a parent, you want to be informed of what’s going on in your child’s life. The parents are the best teachers. They’re the first teachers; they’re the best teachers,” Governor Dewine told reporters.
As Ohio implements this new law, other states are considering similar parental rights bills. Currently, 18 states have statutes defining and protecting parental rights. The Ohio legislation may serve as a model for future bills, potentially reshaping the landscape of parental involvement in education across the nation.