COLUMBUS, Ohio — While the controversial “Parents’ Bill of Rights, has gotten the most attention, other bills tackle issues ranging from firearms regulation to child welfare and public safety. The laws, which take effect in 90 days, have sparked both support and controversy, particularly around provisions affecting schools and parental rights.
LGBTQ+ Notification and Parents’ Rights
One of the most debated bills, House Bill 8, requires schools to notify parents of any changes to their child’s mental, emotional, or physical health, including if the child identifies as LGBTQ+. The law also allows parents to opt out of “sexuality content” and prohibits school personnel from encouraging students to withhold information from their parents unless abuse, abandonment, or neglect is suspected.
Critics argue the bill could “out” LGBTQ+ students, potentially putting them in harm’s way. State Rep. Jamie Callender (R-Concord) called the bill “dangerous” and “bad public policy.” Advocacy groups have already announced plans to challenge the legislation in court.
Supporters, including Gov. DeWine, say the law empowers parents. “Parents are the first and best teachers of their children. They deserve to know what is happening in their child’s life,” DeWine said.
Public Safety and School Discipline
House Bill 206 establishes new guidelines for expelling students who pose an “imminent and severe endangerment” to others. Students must undergo psychological evaluations before being considered for re-admission. Critics warn that Ohio’s limited mental health resources could hinder effective implementation.
House Bill 37, known as “Liv’s Law,” increases penalties for operating a vehicle under the influence (OVI) and aggravated vehicular homicide. It also allows law enforcement to collect oral fluid samples from individuals arrested for OVI.
House Bill 322 criminalizes grooming, making it illegal for adults in positions of trust—such as teachers, coaches, or relatives—to engage in a pattern of conduct aimed at coercing minors into inappropriate relationships.
Supporting Families and Children
House Bill 7 introduces policies to support mothers and babies, including updates to Medicaid to cover evidence-based mental health and dyadic family therapy for young children and their caregivers. Originally proposed with significant funding, the bill passed without appropriations.
House Bill 29 allows individuals in default on child support payments to present evidence that a driver’s license suspension would prevent them from making payments. The measure aims to balance accountability with financial recovery opportunities.
House Bill 531, or “Braden’s Law,” makes sexual extortion a felony, inspired by the tragic death of Braden Markus, a teenager who died by suicide after falling victim to online extortion. The law provides immunity for victims who send explicit images and allows parents of deceased minors access to their devices.
Firearm and Drone Regulations
Senate Bill 58 prohibits government entities from requiring firearm insurance or liability coverage and bans the creation of registries of privately owned firearms or firearm owners. Advocates say the bill protects Second Amendment rights, while critics argue it may hinder efforts to address gun violence.
House Bill 77 establishes regulations for drone operations in Ohio, addressing safety and privacy concerns while supporting the responsible use of drones in various sectors.
Workplace Protections
House Bill 106, known as the “Pay Stub Protection Act,” requires employers to provide employees with pay stubs, promoting transparency and fairness in workplace practices.
Religious Release Time in Schools
House Bill 8 also includes a provision allowing students to leave public schools for religious instruction. Proponents say it increases educational options for families, but critics express concerns about potential disruptions to instructional time and administrative challenges for schools.
Strengthening Public Safety and Family Support
The range of new laws reflects Ohio’s focus on addressing pressing societal issues. Gov. DeWine emphasized the importance of these measures in creating safer and more supportive communities.
“These laws are part of our continued commitment to the safety, well-being, and rights of all Ohioans,” DeWine said during the signing ceremony.
Advocacy groups, particularly those focused on LGBTQ+ rights, have vowed to fight the measures they view as harmful.
All of these measures will become effective in 90 days
