NE Ohio Times

COLUMBUS – In a move to enhance accountability for school employees, the Ohio House of Representatives has passed House Bill 147. The legislation aims to improve the State Board of Education's ability to address misconduct among educators. State Rep. Sarah Fowler Arthur (R-Ashtabula), the bill's sponsor, announced the successful passage of the bill.

One key provision of House Bill 147 is the equal treatment of retiring teachers under investigation for misconduct. These teachers will now be subject to the same consequences as those who resign under similar circumstances. Rep. Fowler Arthur stressed the importance of closing this loophole to ensure due process, protect students and teachers, and prevent district-hopping to evade accountability.

"I believe this loophole should be promptly closed to ensure that due process is followed, students and teachers are protected, and district hopping to avoid consequences of bad behavior is no longer allowed," said Fowler Arthur.

The legislation also includes several other important provisions. Engaging in prostitution will now be added to the list of crimes that can result in the denial of an educator license renewal by the State Board. Furthermore, public and chartered nonpublic schools will be required to report to the State Board when a substitute teacher is removed from the eligible substitute list due to conduct unbecoming to the teaching profession. Lastly, House Bill 147 prohibits educators whose licenses have been revoked from being employed or contracted by a community school.

With its successful passage in the Ohio House of Representatives, House Bill 147 now advances to the Ohio Senate for further consideration. The legislation's comprehensive approach to holding school employees accountable for misconduct has garnered support and attention from various stakeholders.

The passage of House Bill 147 in the Ohio House of Representatives reflects a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of students in the state's educational system. By closing loopholes, adding crimes to the list of disqualifications, and implementing reporting requirements, the legislation seeks to strengthen the State Board of Education's ability to address misconduct among educators.

As the legislation progresses to the Ohio Senate, lawmakers will have the opportunity to evaluate its merits and make informed decisions to further enhance accountability and maintain the integrity of the teaching profession.

To find out more, go to this link: https://ohiohouse.gov/members/sarah-fowler-arthur/news/ohio-house-passes-legislation-to-hold-school-employees-accountable-for-misconduct-117753