School boards in Ohio would be required to openly disclose their Pledge of Allegiance policies under a proposed bill.

On Aug. 19, 2024, the bill was presented in the Ohio House of Representatives.

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Gail Pavliga, R-Atwater, and Rep. Tracy Richardson, R-Marysville.

Ohio mandates that its schools establish a policy on whether they recite the pledge under T.I.P.A.

"As a highly patriotic individual, I believe that the Pledge of Allegiance should be recited in schools, but I did not want to enforce a specific policy."

On Tuesday, Rep. Richardson informed Planet Chronicle Digital via email that the pledge aims to unite us and the bill focuses on keeping parents informed.

Richardson, who deeply values the unity symbolized by the Pledge of Allegiance and has devoted a lifetime to our country in the Armed Forces, understands the significance of our flag and the pledge.

She added that the flag serves as a unifying symbol in battles and the pledge embodies our shared commitment to the values of being American.

In 34 states, students are not obligated to recite the pledge, as schools remind them of this.

"It is a way for parents … to know what policy their school district has decided to implement."

Parents have the right to know if the Pledge of Allegiance is recited in their child's school, as they pay taxes to school districts.

Richardson shared a similar sentiment, saying the bill is about transparency.

She stated that Ohioans anticipate transparency from their elected representatives and government entities, including schools.

In 1943, the Supreme Court decided in West Virginia v. Barnette that students in public schools are not obligated to salute and pledge allegiance to the U.S. flag.

According to the Constitution Center, Francis Bellamy, an ordained minister, wrote the pledge.

The Ohio House will pass the bill before the end of the 135th state assembly session in December, according to Rep. Pavilga.

The Ohio Board of Education was contacted by Planet Chronicle Digital for further comment.