Columbus, Ohio - State Representatives Mike Odioso (R-Green Twp) and Thomas Hall (R-Madison Twp) introduced House Bill 594 at the end of 2025. This legislation is designed to expand computer science education in every public high school and ensure all Ohio students graduate prepared for an AI-driven economy. The bill is a response to the critical workforce need identified by industry leaders throughout the state.

"The need for providing Ohio students with a background in computer science has never been greater. New computer science A.I. applications are utilized in Ohio professions, occupations, and research," said Representative Odioso. "This is what drives the logic and urgency of this proposed legislation."

JobsOhio has consistently identified technology as one of the state's fastest-growing industries, with Ohio ranking among the top states for tech job concentration. Ohio currently employs more than 270,000 people in technology fields and produces approximately 6,200 new tech graduates each year. Yet only 61% of Ohio high schools offer computer science, and just 3% of students take a course each year.

House Bill 594 aims to address the critical need for computer science education by:

Requiring all high schools to offer a computer science course by the 2028-2029 school year, with virtual options included.
Requiring one unit of computer science, for grades 8-12, including AI instruction, for graduation starting with the class of 2033.
Allowing the course to count toward math, science, foreign language, or elective credit, including qualified CTE and CCP courses.
Permitting case-by-case exemptions for students who completed guided computer science learning outside of school.
Directing the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce to produce an annual report on computer science access and participation.

"House Bill 594 reflects my consistent promotion of technology-related legislation, and my keen interest in preparing Ohio students now to adapt and thrive in their future professions and careers," said Representative Hall.

House Bill 594 does not appropriate new funds; it will leverage the state's renewed $8 million TeachCS grant program, which supports teacher training and licensure in computer science. This follows a previous $8 million investment that has already reached hundreds of teachers in Ohio.

On Wednesday, January 28th, a Computer Science and AI Advocacy will be held at the Ohio Statehouse Atrium for all Ohioans in support of House Bill 594 and companion legislation, Senate 236. The event will provide an opportunity for students, educators, industry leaders, and advocates to engage with lawmakers and highlight the importance of preparing Ohio's workforce for an AI-driven future.

House Bill 594 has been assigned to the House Education Committee and awaits its first hearing.