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 educational decisions. Key requirements include the development of policies that promote parental involvement, ensure age-appropriate content, and mandate parental consent for health care services. The bill specifically prohibits school personnel from encouraging students to withhold information from their parents about their health and introduces section 3313.475, which restricts school employees from addressing students with names or pronouns inconsistent with their biological sex without parental permission. It also requires that any requests from students to affirm their gender identity be reported to school administrators, who must inform parents.

In addition to the provisions for public schools, the bill outlines requirements for contracts between sponsors and governing authorities of community schools, mandating elements such as educational programs and attendance policies. It introduces section 3313.475 to enhance compliance requirements for STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools, ensuring they adhere to the same regulations as public schools. The bill also repeals several outdated sections of the Revised Code to streamline legal requirements. Overall, the Given Name Act aims to reinforce parental rights, enhance accountability in community schools, and improve the regulatory framework for STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools in Ohio.

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