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SB 7

Regards student instruction on harmful effects of substance use

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Terry Johnson

SB 7 requires Ohio public schools to teach students about substance use harms across grades K-12, mandating this education be incorporated into the curriculum.

Referred to committee
#education #primaryandsecondaryeducation
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Bill Summary · SB 7

Legislative bill overview

SB 7 mandates that Ohio schools provide student instruction on the harmful effects of substance use as part of their curriculum. The bill establishes requirements for what this education must cover and when it should be delivered to students throughout their K-12 education.

Why is this important

Substance use education in schools affects public health outcomes by establishing foundational knowledge about drugs and alcohol during formative years. The bill's implementation will influence how schools allocate curriculum time and resources, as well as what messages students receive about substance abuse prevention.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum crowding: Schools already face pressure to fit multiple mandated subjects into limited instructional time, and adding requirements may force trade-offs with other educational priorities
  • Age-appropriateness: Determining what specific harmful effects and substances should be taught at each grade level (K-12) without overwhelming younger students remains contentious
  • Instructional approach: Debate exists over whether traditional "scare tactic" education or evidence-based prevention programs (like social-emotional learning approaches) are more effective at reducing actual substance use

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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