YWCA Reacts to Passage of HB 7 & 8

As an advocate for women and families, YWCA Columbus applauds the passage of HB 7, the “Strong Foundations Act,” championed by Central Ohio State Rep. Latyna Humphrey, which aims to reduce infant mortality by expanding prenatal, postnatal, infant, and toddler services. It combines proven strategies with innovative approaches to issues like housing, care coordination, early intervention, and WIC modernization, which will significantly improve the health and well-being of families across Ohio.  

While HB 7 represents progress for Ohio families, the passage of HB 8 sends a troubling regressive message about our state's commitment to students.

Governor DeWine’s signage of HB 8, Ohio’s “Don’t Say Gay Bill,” underscores the legislature’s inequitable approach to family safety and wellbeing. HB 8 could have devastating effects on LGBTQ+ youth, as the bill requires counselors and teachers to out a student who questions their gender identity or sexual orientation to their parents, even if the student could be at risk of abuse. This policy also censors discussion of LGBTQ+ experiences in school while permitting religious time out of school. 

Instead of fostering respect, belonging, and empathy in schools, this bill forces teachers into an untrustworthy role that can threaten the safety of LGBTQ+ children. As a before- and after-school provider with a responsibility to the well-being of Ohio’s youth and educators, we vehemently denounce this harmful legislation and affirm the identities and experiences of LGBTQ+ students.