Bill > HB172

This bill aims to significantly restrict mental health services for minors in Ohio by requiring parental consent for various medical and educational interactions. The bill amends several sections of Ohio's Revised Code to mandate that mental health professionals obtain consent from a parent, legal custodian, or guardian before diagnosing or treating minors for gender-related conditions, and requires comprehensive screening for comorbidities and potential abuse. For schools, the bill establishes new policies requiring districts to notify parents about substantial changes in a student's services, prohibit school personnel from encouraging students to withhold information from parents, and develop procedures for obtaining parental authorization for health care services. The legislation also restricts sexuality-related content in schools, particularly for kindergarten through third-grade students, and emphasizes parents' fundamental right to make decisions about their children's upbringing, education, and care. Additionally, the bill repeals section 5122.04 of the Revised Code, which appears to have previously allowed some medical autonomy for minors. The overall intent is to increase parental involvement and control over minors' mental health, medical, and educational experiences by limiting professional and institutional discretion in providing services without explicit parental consent.

Health and Social Services

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb172