COLUMBUS, Ohio — Legislation that aims to protect free speech in public schools passed the Ohio House, but some educators believe it could create some confusion. 

What You Need To Know

  • House Bill 214 is meant to promote free speech in classrooms

  • The bill's language says it's meant to prohibit public school districts from requiring employees and students to support political ideas

  • The language also says it would make sure that the right to discuss political movements is protected inside the classroom

"It's really important for society to keep to have open forums for discussion of all topics," said State Rep. Adam Holmes, R-Nashport. 

Holmes is sponsoring the legislation, and hopes teachers and students can have better relationships.The legislation passed the House by a 64-30 vote this month. He says it would promote free speech in schools and create doors to better critical thinking.

"Our public schools are certainly encouraging the discussion of anything but protecting folks so they're not punished for holding any specific viewpoint," Holmes said. 

"I think the sponsor claims that this is going to protect free speech rights," said Scott DiMauro, the president of the Ohio Education Association. "But we know that educators don't need another bill to protect what the constitution already protects."

Under the bill's language, it would prohibit public school districts from requiring employees and students to support political ideas. It would also make sure that the right to discuss political movements is protected inside the classroom. Plus, public school employees’ free speech would be protected.

"There's always a need for a balance between any type of policy specifically as it relates to public education," said Todd Hoadley, the superintendent of Tolles Career & Technical Center. 

Hoadley previously served as the Superintendent for the Dublin City School District. He says he doesn’t oppose the bill, but he's concerned about unintended consequences the legislation could have on schools across Ohio. One of the consequences could be opening the door to hate speech.

"We have got to figure out a way through training and whatever means allow the environment within a public school to be open and avoiding hate speech, but still a place where complex issues can be discussed," Hoadley said. 

The bill still needs to go through the legislative process in the Senate.