Self-Defense Class May Be Mandatory for Ohio H.S. Students
The lawmakers said the bill aims to combat sexual assault against young people.
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If a bill introduced by two House Republicans becomes law, Ohio students would have to take a self-defense class to graduate high school.
The Student Protection Act would require incoming freshmen in public and private schools to complete self-defense training starting the 2023-2024 school year. Reps. Tom Young and Andrea White said the bill aims to combat sexual assault against young people, according to Yahoo News.
“Physical, emotional, sexual abuse, and assault are never okay. These behaviors should never be tolerated or go unreported,” said White. “Reinforcing this message with our young people, while equipping them with defensive tactics and proactive strategies will help them protect themselves and avoid dangerous situations.”
The training could also help students identify early signs of mental health issues and potentially aggressive behavior, she said.