A new bill has been proposed in Ohio called the Transparency in Pledge of Allegiance Act (T.I.P.A.), which would require school districts to publicly disclose their policies regarding the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The bill was introduced in the Ohio House of Representatives on Aug. 19, 2024, sponsored by Rep. Gail Pavliga and Rep. Tracy Richardson. The bill aims to provide transparency to constituents and allow parents to know whether or not the Pledge of Allegiance is recited in their children’s schools. Rep. Pavliga stated her belief that the pledge should be recited in schools, but did not want to mandate a specific policy, instead opting for transparency through publicly accessible policies.
Forty-six states already have requirements in place for the recitation of the pledge in schools, with some states having exemptions or reminding students that participation is not mandatory. Rep. Richardson, a former member of the Armed Forces, emphasized the unity symbolized by the Pledge of Allegiance and highlighted the importance of the flag and pledge in reflecting American identity. The bill is seen as a way to keep parents informed about the policies implemented by their local school districts, with Rep. Pavliga emphasizing the right of parents to know whether the pledge is recited in their child’s school.
The bill seeks to promote transparency and allow parents to have a say in how their local government operates. Rep. Richardson believes that Ohioans expect openness from their elected officials and governmental agencies, including schools. The Supreme Court ruling in West Virginia v. Barnette in 1943 established that public school students cannot be forced to salute and pledge allegiance to the U.S. flag. The Pledge of Allegiance dates back to Sept. 1892 and was written by ordained minister Francis Bellamy to commemorate Christopher Columbus’ arrival. Rep. Pavliga is hopeful that the bill will be passed by the end of the session in December.
The proposed legislation in Ohio seeks to provide clarity and transparency regarding the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in schools. By publicly disclosing their policies, school districts can ensure that parents are informed about whether or not the pledge is recited in their child’s school. The bill is not a mandate requiring schools to comply with a specific policy but rather a way for parents to understand what policies are in place. Rep. Richardson emphasizes the importance of the flag and pledge in symbolizing unity and American identity, while also acknowledging the significance of the Pledge of Allegiance in reflecting collective support for the nation.
With the majority of states already having requirements in place for the recitation of the pledge, the Ohio bill aims to align the state with these existing practices. By allowing for exemptions or reminders that participation is voluntary, the bill respects the First Amendment freedoms of students. Rep. Pavliga and Richardson both believe that the bill will enable constituents to be more informed and engaged in the educational policies of their local school districts. The legislation underscores the values of openness and transparency in government and education, aligning with the expectations of Ohioans for accountable and accessible governance.
