A new proposal moving through the Ohio Statehouse could change what students learn in health and human-development classes across Lorain and Erie counties. The legislation, House Bill 485, would require public schools to show a state-approved fetal development video and a three-minute ultrasound video to students every school year beginning in fifth grade.
The bill directs school districts to include the materials in any class covering human growth, development, or sexual education. Districts would be required to use a specific animated fetal-development video or a “substantially similar” alternative approved under state guidelines. The requirement would begin with the 2026–27 school year.
Parents would be permitted to opt their children out of viewing the videos by submitting a written request. Students who opt out would receive alternative instruction.
Locally, the mandate would apply to Vermilion Schools, Firelands Schools, Lorain City Schools, and all districts within Lorain, Erie, and surrounding counties. Each district would need to determine when the videos fit into their curriculum and how teachers will handle opt-outs, replacement lessons, and parent notifications.
Supporters in the legislature argue the videos offer a consistent, statewide introduction to fetal development. Opponents at the Statehouse have raised concerns about medical accuracy and age-appropriateness, but no changes have been made to the core requirements of the bill so far.
House Bill 485 has passed the Ohio House and is now awaiting consideration in the Senate. If approved and signed, schools will begin implementing the mandate in less than two years. Local administrators say they will watch the bill closely so they can begin planning if it becomes law