FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 26, 2026

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio House of Representatives yesterday passed House Bill 249, the Indecent Exposure Modernization Act, sponsored by Angie King (R-Celina) and Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.). The legislation strengthens Ohio law to protect children from harmful and obscene adult performances and reinforce privacy in private spaces such as restrooms and locker rooms.

The bill passed with a vote of 63–32 and now advances to the Ohio Senate.

HB 249 works to safeguard children from adult harms and ensures that young people can grow up in environments that preserve their innocence. It also establishes clearer legal standards to help maintain privacy and safety in spaces designated for biological females.

The legislation was brought forward, in part, by concerns raised by King’s constituents and its importance is further underscored by a case in Xenia involving a YMCA facility, which highlighted gaps in Ohio’s current indecent exposure law.

Rep. King

Rep. King said-

“House Bill 249 is about protecting kids and restoring common-sense safeguards to protect their innocence. Parents across Ohio want to know their children are safe and not exposed to adult performances or imagery. This bill closes loopholes in our law, strengthens protections for minors, and ensures that private spaces remain just that—private. Ohio must remain a place where families feel confident that their children can simply be kids.”

The Indecent Exposure Modernization Act:

  • Provides statutory definitions to currently undefined terms
  • Closes loopholes to prohibit adult sexualized performances in public spaces in front of minors
  • Provides clear exemptions for nursing mothers

Rep. King added-

“When laws fall short and children are exposed to harm, it is our responsibility to act. That’s exactly what this bill does,” Rep. King added. “I am grateful to my colleagues in the House for standing with Ohio families, and I urge the Senate to act swiftly so we can send this bill to the Governor’s desk.”

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For more information, please reach out to Rep. King’s office at Rep84@ohiohouse.gov.