01/09/2025

DeWine Signs House Bill 8

The bill was opposed by several organizations

Governor Mike DeWine, a Republican, on Wednesday signed into law several education changes that will require schools to let students leave for off-site religious classes and that opponents worry will out LGBTQ students. Among those bills was House Bill 8.

Nicknamed the "Parents' Bill of Rights" by its supporters, the bill ballooned from its initial purpose, which was to inform parents about any healthcare provided or "sexually explicit" material taught during school hours, allowing parents to opt their children out. Sexually explicit was defined as pictures, photographs, drawings and movies depicting sexual conduct.

However, extensive changes were added as the bill moved through the GOP-controlled legislature. The definition of sexuality content that parents must be informed about now includes "gender ideology," a term used by anti-LGBTQ activists to describe gender identity.

Please select this link to read the complete article from The Cincinnati Enquirer.