Clermont Times

On Wednesday, the Ohio General Assembly passed State Representative Adam Bird's Protect All Students Act. This legislation, included in Senate Bill 104, mandates that public and chartered nonpublic schools, educational service centers, and institutions of higher education designate certain facilities exclusively for students of either male or female biological sex.

"This legislation has always been about protecting students, and I think that's something we should all be able to agree on," stated Bird. "Many Ohioans don't want their local schools to allow opposite-sex access to restrooms or locker rooms. The Protect All Students Act will provide clarity and a unified approach for school leaders statewide."

The new law requires that multi-occupancy restrooms, locker rooms, changing rooms, and shower rooms accessible by multiple students at once must be designated solely for either male or female students. This applies not only to school facilities but also to locations where school-sponsored activities occur. Institutions of higher education are required to use clear signage for these designations to ensure clarity for both students and staff.

The bill was introduced following concerns from Ohio residents about allowing opposite-sex access to shared facilities designed for multiple students. School leaders and parents across the state have shown support for these protections.

The legislation now proceeds to the Governor's desk for his signature or veto.