Ohio Governor Signs Bill on Religious Instruction and School Overdose Policies
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has signed a new law allowing students to leave school during the day for religious instruction, as long as certain conditions are met.
With written consent from a parent or guardian, students can attend religious classes for at least one period a week, though schools are not responsible for transportation or related expenses.
The law ensures that public funds are not used and that public school personnel are not involved in organizing or conducting the religious instruction.
Students must also make up any missed schoolwork and cannot skip core curriculum classes to attend.
Additionally, the legislation includes new requirements for schools to maintain and manage overdose reversal medications, outlining proper storage, access, and staff training to ensure student safety.
The bipartisan bill, sponsored by Representatives Dontavious Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania), seeks to balance freedom of religion with educational standards and health safety.
Every child has the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, as well as the right to the highest attainable standard of health and education, rights enshrined under the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
