Ohio: Groups Call for More Sex Education

A coalition of 31 women's groups and health organizations is backing legislation that would require Ohio schools to embrace comprehensive sex education, among other items. State Sens. Teresa Fedor (D-Toledo) and Sue Morano (D-Lorain) plan to introduce the Prevention First Act in October.

It marks the third time Fedor, a former schoolteacher, has introduced the act. In addition to requiring public school sex education to cover contraception and STDs as well as abstinence, the legislation would force insurers in the state to cover the cost of contraception; ensure rape victims have access to emergency contraceptives in all emergency rooms; and require pharmacies to dispense prescribed and over-the-counter drugs without delay.

To pass, the act must overcome some significant obstacles. The Legislature has had a longstanding opposition to comprehensive sex education. In 1999, the state adopted a law requiring districts to teach abstinence-only health education; and in 2001, a law barring any statewide standards for health education without legislative approval went into effect.

Some pharmacists have refused to dispense the "morning-after pill," saying it is against their religious views. And insurance companies and business leaders routinely oppose mandated coverage, claiming it drives up the cost of health insurance.

"We do have a lot of work to do," acknowledged Fedor.

Said Senate President Bill Harris (R-Ashland), who controls what bills reach floor votes: "We try to always keep an open mind to bills introduced. I think it'll get one hearing."

Back to other news for October 2009