The Given Name Act amends the Revised Code to establish new provisions regarding the use of gender pronouns in public schools, emphasizing parental rights in children's education. Key amendments require school districts to create policies that promote parental involvement, ensure age-appropriate content, and notify parents of significant changes in their child's services. The bill prohibits school personnel from encouraging students to withhold information from their parents about their mental, emotional, or physical health. A new section, 3313.475, outlines strict guidelines for how public school employees and contractors must address students regarding names and pronouns, mandating parental consent for any names or pronouns that do not align with a student's biological sex.

Additionally, the bill introduces comprehensive requirements for community schools, including the need to outline educational programs, maintain financial records, and achieve racial and ethnic balance within the student body. It establishes compliance requirements for STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools, adding section 3313.475 to their operational framework while repealing outdated provisions. The legislation aims to enhance accountability and operational standards for educational institutions, allowing parents to take legal action against schools that violate these provisions, including seeking injunctive relief and attorney's fees.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3313.473, 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24