Ohio Lawmakers Pass Controversial Higher Education Reform Bill, Awaiting Governor’s Signature
TOLEDO, Ohio – On Wednesday, Ohio lawmakers finalized the passage of a sweeping higher education overhaul, sending the bill to Governor Mike DeWine’s desk for approval. Senate Bill 1, formally known as the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, introduces significant reforms to state colleges and universities, including a ban on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and other controversial measures. The bill is expected to receive DeWine’s signature, despite vocal opposition from critics who warn of its potential harm to academic freedom.
The legislation’s most notable provision is the prohibition of DEI practices at Ohio’s public colleges and universities, a move that has sparked protests on campuses across the state. Proponents argue the bill will promote free expression and create a more balanced, impartial academic environment. In addition to the DEI ban, the bill also includes several other provisions: a ban on faculty strikes, requirements for professors to remain neutral on “controversial beliefs or policies,” mandates for course syllabi to be posted online, and a new civics class requirement for students. The bill also bars state institutions from accepting donations from China.
State Senator Kristina Roegner (R-Hudson), a vocal supporter of the bill, hailed the legislation as a necessary step toward protecting free speech on college campuses. “Our best and brightest will be able to learn without prejudice, speak their mind without being canceled, be honest about their positions without fear of faculty retaliation, and consider all sides of an issue,” Roegner said in a statement. “This bill will empower students to think critically and form their own opinions.”
However, the bill has drawn strong criticism from some lawmakers, educators, and students, who argue it could have a chilling effect on academic freedom and stifle intellectual diversity. Senator Bill DeMora (D-Columbus), who has been a vocal opponent of the bill, continued his harsh criticism after its passage in the Senate. “This bill is cow manure,” DeMora said. “It’s going to ruin college education in Ohio and undermine the principles of free inquiry that universities stand for.”
The bill passed the Ohio Senate last month and was approved by the House of Representatives last week, with amendments made by the House that the Senate later approved. The final vote in the Senate was 20-11. Governor DeWine has expressed his intention to sign the bill, though protests and calls for a veto continue to grow louder.
On Ohio’s college campuses, students and faculty have organized protests against the bill, citing concerns over the potential impact on academic freedom and the stifling of diverse perspectives. The University of Toledo has not yet commented on the specific effects the bill might have on its campus, while Bowling Green State University issued a statement expressing concern about the legislation’s potential consequences. The university stressed its commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse learning environment but indicated that it would need to review the bill’s full implications before making further statements.
As the bill moves toward becoming law, its long-term impact on Ohio’s higher education system remains uncertain. Supporters argue that the reforms are necessary to restore balance and fairness to the educational environment, while critics contend that the bill could significantly alter the landscape of higher education in the state, particularly in terms of intellectual freedom and the ability to address important social issues.
Governor DeWine has yet to sign the bill, but with its passage all but certain, the future of higher education in Ohio is poised for significant change. As the debate continues, the implications of the bill will likely shape discussions on academic freedom and diversity in colleges and universities across the country.
