Rep. Rogers Announces Senate Hearing on Male Wellness Month, DAD Day

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Elgin Rogers, Jr. (D-Toledo) is proud to announce that House Bill (HB) 207, known as the Male Wellness Month Act, received its first hearing in the Ohio Senate Health Committee this week. The bipartisan legislation, jointly sponsored by Rep. Brian Lorenz (R-Powell), aims to promote proactive healthcare habits among men across the state.

"Health is wealth, and strong men take care of their health," said Rep. Rogers. "Too often, men delay or avoid seeing their doctors out of fear, stigma, or the belief that doing so makes them less strong. This bill challenges that mindset. It's about reminding men that seeking care is not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of strength, responsibility, and love for the people who depend on them¿."

The Male Wellness Month Act designates June as Male Wellness Month to encourage men in rural, urban, and suburban communities to undergo prostate exams, colonoscopies, and mental health screenings. It also designates the third Monday in June as Take Your Dad to the Doctor and Dentist Day, also known as DAD Day.

The legislation directs the Ohio Department of Health to create a public poster promoting DAD Day, encouraging families to accompany their fathers or loved ones to medical appointments. Rep. Rogers emphasized the importance of family support in improving men's health outcomes, sharing how he personally advocates for his father's care.

HB 207 passed the Ohio House earlier this fall with broad bipartisan support.