Rep. Melanie Miller and Proponents Testify on Baby Olivia Act

State Representative Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) is pleased to share that she recently provided sponsor testimony in House Education Committee on House Bill 485 - The Baby Olivia Act - legislation that would enhance science education in Ohio public schools by requiring the inclusion of a medically accurate video about early human development in school curriculum. Several proponents of House Bill 485 provided testimony this week in Committee.

"The Baby Olivia Act is about ensuring students learn the wonder of human development through a lens of science and truth," said Rep. Miller. "When students can see through medically accurate visuals how life begins and grows, it deepens both their understanding of biology and their appreciation for the incredible gift of life itself."

The name of the bill is inspired by a video called Baby Olivia, which shows the life of a baby growing within the womb. Backed by scientific accuracy, the video depicts the moment life begins and beyond to demonstrate each stage of early human development.

House Bill 485 makes the following updates:

Requires use of a scientifically accurate video in applicable health, science, or any courses that covers human growth, development, or sexuality.
Ensures content is age-appropriate and aligned with educational standards.
Supplements existing curriculum with engaging, evidence-based visual material.

Similar legislation has been introduced in over 20 states, with six states passing these bills into laws.

You can watch Rep. Miller's testimony here and the proponent testimony here.

Pictured from left to right: Former Rep. Jena Powell; Kate Makra, Right to Life Action Coalition; Dr. William Lile; Rep. Melanie Miller; Dr. Alicia Thompson; David Mahan, Center for Christian Virtue

House Bill 485 awaits further consideration in House Education Committee.