Substitute House Bill 477 Summary

• Eliminates various provisions and programs related to the Department of Education and operation of primary and secondary schools, including repealing 14 sections of the Revised Code

• Revises paraprofessional certification requirements to require educational aide permits and at least one qualification: ESEA designation, two years of higher education coursework, associate degree, or qualifying academic assessment score

• Provides civil immunity for school districts, community schools, STEM schools, and college-preparatory boarding schools regarding decisions not to provide or procure mental health services for suspended or expelled students, unless the decision is made with malicious purpose, bad faith, or reckless disregard

• Restricts out-of-school suspensions and expulsions for students in pre-kindergarten through grade three, except for specific serious behaviors or immediate safety threats, and requires principal consultation with mental health professionals when possible

• Maintains criminal identification and records management functions for the Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation, including sex offender registry responsibilities and operation of the Ohio law enforcement gateway network