Columbus, OH – Ohio is set to introduce several new laws in 2025 that will impact schools, wages, and religious rights. These laws aim to address issues related to cell phone use, restroom policies, religious expression, and minimum wage increases.
Ohio’s New Bathroom Law
Starting February 25, 2025, Senate Bill 104, also called the “Protect All Students Act,” will enforce rules regarding restroom use in schools. The law requires public and private schools, colleges, and universities to restrict access to multiperson restrooms, locker rooms, and shower rooms based on a person’s sex assigned at birth.
Key Points:
- Facilities must be designated for single-sex use.
- Special accommodations can be made for single-use facilities upon request.
- Non-gendered or multigendered facilities are prohibited unless labeled as “family” facilities with single toilets or showers.
- Exceptions apply to young children with guardians, individuals with disabilities needing assistance, and staff performing job duties.
- Students cannot share overnight accommodations with individuals of the opposite biological sex.
Ohio’s New Cell Phone Law
House Bill 250, effective January 1, 2025, requires schools to limit student cell phone use during school hours.
Key Points:
- Schools must adopt a policy by July 1, 2025, to minimize distractions and curb bullying.
- Phones can be used for Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or health needs, such as diabetes management.
- Districts have flexibility in crafting policies but can use the Ohio Department of Education’s guidelines as a reference.
Religious Expression Days
Starting January 1, 2025, House Bill 214 allows students to take up to three excused absences annually for religious expression.
Key Points:
- Schools must approve requests without questioning a student’s beliefs.
- Principals can confirm the absence with a student’s parents or guardians.
- Students can still participate in extracurricular activities on these days.
Minimum Wage Increase
Ohio’s minimum wage will increase beginning January 1, 2025,
Key Points:
- Non-tipped workers: $10.70 per hour (up by 25 cents).
- Tipped workers: $5.35 per hour (up by 10 cents).
- Federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour will still apply to smaller businesses and workers under 16.
- This annual adjustment is based on the Consumer Price Index to reflect inflation rates.
These changes reflect Ohio’s efforts to balance student rights, improve education environments, and support workers with wage adjustments. Residents and schools should prepare for these updates in the coming year.
