Ohio’s House Bill 8 (HB 8) has incited a debate over parental rights, student privacy and LGBTQ+ student safety. The bill mandates that public schools notify parents about their child’s mental health, emotional well-being and gender identity. 

There was support for this bill by some House representatives such as D.J. Swearingen of Ottawa and Erie county. The bill, to its supporters, is seen as a way to give parents more control over their children’s education. 

“I’m grateful to see the Parents’ Bill of Rights officially cross the finish line,” said Swearingen. “This critical legislation will ensure parents have a voice when it comes to the health and wellbeing of their children.” 

LGBTQ+ advocates believe it may jeopardize the safety and privacy of vulnerable students. One critic, former Sen. Bill DeMora of Columbus, fears that HB 8 could have consequences for at-risk students. The bill would forcibly out LGBTQ+ students before they are ready which could expose them to rejection, abuse or homelessness. 

“The scope of this bill is so broad that any minor change in emotion a student shares could be reported,” DeMora said. This emphasizes what others believe – children may no longer be able to find support from trusted teachers out of fear that, legally, their private struggles will have to be communicated to their parents. 

Because of this, critics believe this bill could undermine the relationship between students and educators. As the organization Honesty for Ohio Education states, “[HB 8] foments division and distrust of educators… it is important for students and families to have safe, trusted relationships with educators and leaders.” 

By forcing educators or faculty to report private information, students may stop seeking help because of the repercussions of their struggles being found out. The bill would also impose the burden of reporting on schools. 

Senate Bill 293, attached to HB 8, allows Ohio students to leave school during the day for religious instruction, with parental consent. Supporters of this bill view it as an exercise of religious freedom. Students can attend off-campus religious classes and may be able to earn an academic credit for the religious courses. Religious groups like LifeWise Academy believe families have been valuing teaching children Bible-like character. 

Critics, including Sen. DeMora, argue that it may integrate anti-LGBTQ+ views into public education and violate the First Amendment’s separation of church and state. “How is forcing religion and anti-LGBTQ+ laws into public schools not a form of indoctrination?” DeMora questioned.

Ohio lawmakers have also pushed for a “Parents’ Bill of Rights” which gives parents even more control over their children’s education. Key components, in addition to aspects of HB 8, include an option for parents to opt their children out of sexuality related content and parental consent for health services. 

These bills showcase a larger trend in Ohio, reflecting that parents want more control over their children’s educational journey. While transparency is important, and parental involvement is undeniable in public education, there are factors that could potentially harm students. 

HB 8 shows a shift in educational practices and laws in Ohio and how they may affect LGBTQ+ students. 

When the law takes effect by this upcoming school year, it is crucial for voices in the LGBTQ+ community to make the needs of vulnerable children heard. Marginalized students can not be overshadowed by political rhetoric.