Lawmakers in Ohio have introduced a bill similar to Florida’s recently passed Parental Rights in Education law, which critics call the “Don’t Say Gay” law.
Under Ohio’s House Bill 616, introduced by Republican state Reps. Mike Loychik and Jean Schmidt on Monday, schools are banned from teaching, using or providing “any curriculum or instructional materials on sexual orientation or gender identity” for students in kindergarten through third grade.
Teachers of grade 4 through 12 students are not allowed to provide material “in any manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards,” CBS News reports.
The bill also prevents Ohio public school teachers from teaching “any divisive or inherently racist concept.”
“Divisive concepts” according to the bill, includes lessons about critical race theory, the 1619 project, intersectional theory, diversity, equity and inclusion learning outcomes and inherited racial guilt.
The bill also allows for parents to file complaints against teachers if they believe the educator violates the rule. Punishment for this offence range from admonishment to revoking the teacher’s license.
