OH HB486

Teachers in Ohio public schools and state universities may provide instruction on the "positive impacts" of Judeo-Christian values on American history when teaching American history courses

The bill specifies 20 historical topics teachers may cover, including the Pilgrims' religious organization, appeals to divine power in the Declaration of Independence, George Washington's farewell address on religion and morality, Benjamin Franklin's call for prayer at the Constitutional Convention, and the role of religious leaders in the civil rights movement

Applies to school districts, community schools, STEM schools, college-preparatory boarding schools, and state institutions of higher education

The General Assembly declares that teaching the "historical, positive impact of religion on American history" is consistent with the First Amendment and is "factual" rather than "proselytization"

Amends Ohio Revised Code sections 3314.03, 3326.11, and 3328.24 and creates new sections 3320.09, 3320.10, and 3320.11