The bill introduced by Representative Williams seeks to improve the identification of human trafficking risks among students in Ohio public schools by mandating annual screenings using the University of Toledo's FOCUS youth screening tool, starting in the 2027-2028 school year. It amends sections 3314.03, 3326.11, and 3328.24 of the Revised Code and enacts a new section, 3313.675, which requires school districts to report screening results to the University of Toledo. The University will provide training on the tool and create an online portal for data tracking while ensuring student anonymity and protecting personally identifiable information from being disclosed as public records.

Additionally, the bill addresses the contractual relationships between sponsors and governing authorities of community schools, capping payments for monitoring and oversight at three percent of total state operating expenses. It outlines the responsibilities of sponsors, including compliance monitoring and performance evaluation, and allows for contract renewals under specific conditions. The bill also amends existing sections to ensure STEM and college-preparatory boarding schools comply with the same legal obligations as school districts, while appropriating funds for training on the youth screening tool and repealing certain outdated sections of the Revised Code to streamline regulations.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3314.03, 3326.11, 3328.24