Why Ohio’s New Bills Could Put Kids’ Mental Health at Risk

Ohio lawmakers are pushing two bills that have mental health experts raising eyebrows. One would let schools bring in untrained religious volunteers to counsel students, while the other would make it harder for teens to get therapy without their parents’ permission. Critics say the first bill’s definition of a "chaplain" is so broad that almost anyone with a religious title could qualify—even someone who officiated a single wedding. The second bill could block kids who need help from getting it in time, especially if parents refuse consent.Some chaplains themselves admit they aren’t equipped for mental health crises. Meanwhile, the push for these bills seems to ignore real problems like rising student anxiety and depression. Instead of focusing on proven solutions, lawmakers are turning to untested, faith-based support—while making professional care harder to access. It’s a strange move, critics argue, for a state dealing with growing youth mental health struggles. The debate reveals a deeper issue: Are these bills about helping kids, or pushing an agenda? Either way, the rush to pass them without clear rules or training raises big questions. Why replace trained therapists with volunteers? And why make it tougher for teens to seek help on their own? The answers aren’t simple—but the risks are real.