Richardson Supports Parents' Bill of Rights

COLUMBUS – State Representative Tracy Richardson (R-Marysville) joined members of the Ohio House of Representatives in the passing of the Parents’ Bill of Rights Wednesday. 

The legislation will protect the ability and authority of parents to direct the upbringing, education, health care and mental health care of their minor child. 

“Parents are a fundamental foundation in the lives of their children,” said Richardson. “They partner with schools to educate their kids. Parents also have the legal right to raise and protect their children. This legislation will help preserve those rights and protect the futures of Ohio children.”

Under this legislation, schools will be required to inform parents of any health-related changes in their child and prohibited from encouraging students to hide these changes from their parents. If schools believe the child is in danger, they should contact children’s protective services as mandated reporters. 

Parents will also be ensured oversight regarding classes that are sexually explicit in subject matter. Schools will be required to provide sexually explicit content to parents for review. Parents will have the right to opt out and remove their child from a class if they do not feel comfortable with the material being taught. 

The Parents’ Bill of Rights now heads to the Ohio Senate for consideration.