COLUMBUS, Ohio-Ohio House Bill 445 proposes changing current law to require public schools to allow students to attend religious classes during the school day if their parents opt-in. Introduced by State Reps. Gary Click and Al Cutrona, the bill aims to address parental rights and aligns with Supreme Court decisions permitting religious instruction in public schools.
While federal law imposes restrictions, Ohio allows such instruction with written parental consent, without using school grounds or funds. Critics, like the Freedom From Religion Action Fund, oppose such laws, citing potential student pressure and divisiveness. Rep. Click emphasizes the importance of providing the opportunity while Rep. Piccolantonio argues local discretion suffices. Rep. Cutrona sees the bill as proactive, anticipating parental demand. The bill responds to LifeWise’s proposal for religious instruction in local districts, which some schools have declined. LifeWise primarily serves elementary students off-campus during designated times.
https://news.yahoo.com/ohio-bill-require-public-schools-141100813.html?fr=sycsrp_catchall
