Full Breakdown
Ohio Bill Aims to Overturn Conversion Therapy Bans and Limit LGBTQ+ Support in Schools
2/11/2026, 10:05:25 AM
Overview of the Legislation
Ohio Republicans have introduced House Bill 693 (H.B. 693), a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to restrict support for LGBTQ+ youth and reinstate conversion therapy practices previously banned in various municipalities. Sponsored by State Representatives Gary Click and Josh Williams, the bill has garnered support from 14 additional cosponsors, primarily from the conservative faction of the Ohio House Republican caucus.
Key Provisions of H.B. 693
The bill includes several significant provisions that would alter the landscape of LGBTQ+ support in Ohio. Notably, it aims to nullify local bans on conversion therapy enacted by cities such as Cleveland, Akron, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cuyahoga County. By redefining counseling aimed at aligning a child’s gender identity with their biological sex as not constituting conversion therapy, H.B. 693 effectively undermines these local protections.
Additionally, the legislation prohibits state employees from affirming a minor's gender identity, which could lead to disciplinary actions against teachers and mental health professionals who use a student's preferred pronouns or affirm their gender identity. It also restricts child welfare investigations, barring agencies from acting on reports of abuse or neglect if the sole basis involves affirming a child's biological sex.
Impact on Local Control and Education
H.B. 693 significantly limits local school boards' authority, mandating that all educational institutions adhere to state-imposed guidelines regarding gender identity. This includes a requirement for parental notification if a child identifies as LGBTQ+, effectively placing schools in the midst of a contentious cultural debate. Critics, including Melissa Cropper from the Ohio Federation of Teachers, argue that the bill undermines educators' professionalism and autonomy, stating, "It's an attack on autonomy. It's an attack on local control."
Criticism and Opposition
Opponents of H.B. 693, including LGBTQ+ advocates and various medical organizations, have voiced strong concerns regarding the bill's implications for child welfare and mental health. Cuyahoga County spokesperson Jennifer Ciaccia emphasized the dangers of reinstating conversion therapy, noting that it is "a hateful, misleading and dangerous practice discredited by over 28 major medical organizations." Critics argue that the bill could jeopardize the safety and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth by promoting an environment of non-affirmation and discrimination.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the bill has received support from conservative lawmakers, it has not yet achieved broad backing within the Republican caucus. The potential consequences of H.B. 693 on local governance and child welfare remain contentious, with advocates for LGBTQ+ rights warning of the risks associated with its implementation.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This bill says that for the solitary reason of the fact that you affirm that child's natural sex, that is not abuse.” — Gary Click, State Representative
- “It's an attack on autonomy. It's an attack on local control. It's an attack on professionalism,” — Melissa Cropper, Ohio Federation of Teachers
- “We remain committed to upholding this policy and the protections it provides for children and families in our community.” — Jennifer Ciaccia, Cuyahoga County Spokesperson
As H.B. 693 progresses through the legislative process, its implications for LGBTQ+ youth and local governance in Ohio will continue to be a focal point of debate among lawmakers, educators, and advocates.
