Ohio GOP Introduce a 'Don't Say Gay' Bill, Flee From Questions
House Bill 616, which is similar to the bill recently signed into law in Florida but goes into more depth on some topics. It states that public schools or private ones that accept vouchers cannot “teach, use, or provide any curriculum or instructional materials on sexual orientation or gender identity” in grades K-3, and that in higher grades, these subjects cannot be addressed “in any manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”It would additionally ban “any curriculum, instructional material, or assignment designed to promote or endorse divisive or inherently racist concepts,” under which it includes antiracism materials such as The 1619 Project, a series of New York Times articles on slavery and its legacy that has also been published as a book.“The classroom is a place that seeks answers for our children without political activism,” said a statement issued by Schmidt. “Parents deserve and should be provided a say in what is taught to their children in schools.” Loychik tweeted, “Curriculum about gender identity and sexuality has no place in K-3 classrooms, period.”Parents could file complaints alleging violation, and school boards would hold hearings.
Penalties would include suspension of teachers and loss of state funds for districts.As reporters attempted to question Schmidt about the bill on Tuesday, the lawmaker was caught on video fleeing from them.
She told the reporters, "I have to go to the Senate, please don't harass me."When one asked if she could explain the bill, Schmidt said, "No, I can't." Another reporter asked why Schmidt thinks the bill is needed in Ohio, but she ignored the question and kept walking.
