Central Ohio Today

State Representative Tracy Richardson has introduced a new piece of legislation to the House Primary and Secondary Committee. The proposed bill mandates that schools must make their Pledge of Allegiance policy publicly accessible, including posting it on their websites.

Richardson emphasized the importance of the Pledge of Allegiance in American culture. "The Pledge of Allegiance represents our American values of freedom, liberty and justice for all," she stated. She believes that learning the pledge in school fosters respect and love for the flag and country among students. "At a time in history when we seem to be very polarized, reciting the Pledge builds unity by affirming our collective commitment to our national values," Richardson added. The bill aims to ensure parents are informed about whether their children are participating in this tradition at school.

Currently, Ohio law requires school districts to have a policy regarding the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance as part of their program. Richardson's bill seeks to expand this requirement by making these policies publicly available.

House Bill 657 is now set for further discussion in additional hearings within the House Primary and Secondary Education Committee.