The Affirming Families First Act aims to amend the Ohio Revised Code to protect the rights of parents and guardians in affirming their minor children's gender identity. A key provision establishes Section 2151.032, which clarifies that affirming a child's sex cannot be classified as abuse or neglect, and aligns the definition of "affirming a child's sex" with existing law. The bill also prohibits case plans from requiring parents or guardians to consent to medical or surgical interventions that contradict a child's affirmed sex. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of children's health and safety in custody cases and outlines the responsibilities of public and private child services agencies in maintaining case plans that prioritize the child's best interests.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new provisions regarding children's advocacy centers and outlines the procedures for courts in approving shared parenting plans, ensuring that the child's best interests are prioritized. It prohibits courts from considering a parent's affirmation of a child's gender identity as contrary to the child's best interest when allocating parental rights. The legislation also restricts state agencies from investigating parental affirmations of a child's sex as abuse or neglect and allows for private legal action against violations of these provisions. Overall, the bill seeks to uphold parental rights and limit state intervention in matters related to children's gender identity and health care decisions.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2151.412, 2151.426, 3109.04, 3109.054, 3129.01