Ohio passes ‘Parents’ Bill of Rights;’ bill heads to governor’s desk

Ohio’s Senate on Wednesday, Dec. 18, approved a “Parents’ Bill of Rights,” which includes provisions for off-site religious instruction. Supporters of the legislation say it aims to enhance parental involvement in their children’s education. Opponents, meanwhile, express concerns about potential infringement on educational freedom.
According to The Hill, the bill requires that parents be given advanced notice before “sexuality content” is taught in a class and that children can be removed from those discussions. Likewise, schools will have to notify parents if their child seeks counseling or goes by a different name or preferred pronoun. The bill would also pave the way for students to leave campus so they can receive faith-based instruction during a school day, something some K-12 schools in the state already allow.