COLUMBUS, Ohio — Ohio lawmakers are working on passing a bill that would require school districts to report to parents if a student chooses to identify as a gender that doesn't align with their biological sex.
House Bill 8, also known as the "Parents' Bill of Rights," would also require school districts to make sure any sexuality content is age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate.
"We wanted to make sure the language in this was correct and you know protected parents and schools," said Senator Andrew Brenner.
The wording of "sexuality content" concerns some. Dwayne Steward, the executive director of Equality Ohio, said the bill reminds him of the "Don't Say Gay" bill in Florida.
"What ends up happening is just an immediate erasure of LGBTQ people, their families, as well as a complete erasure of our history from the school's curriculum in the school system," said Steward.
If passed, school districts would notify parents of any change in a student's services like counseling or anything to do with physical or mental health. It would also require schools to tell parents what healthcare services are offered at the school.
Steward believes that could be dangerous for LGBTQ+ youth who confide in school professionals about their sexuality.
"The teacher would have to inform a parent about a student's sexuality, or gender identify, which is forced outing. It will be dangerous, very dangerous for LGBTQ youth," said Steward.
The legislation also mentions school staff should encourage students not to withhold anything from their parents.
Dara Adkison, executive director of Trans Ohio said the bill is preposterous.
"It's just exhausting and hurtful, you know, it's such a blatant First Amendment violation for both students and teachers. This is what our legislatures are choosing to spend their time on," said Adkison.
If the bill does not pass next week through the Senate and House, then lawmakers will have to start over next year.
"We will see what happens between now and next week," said Senator Brenner.
The bill can be read here.