BREAKING NEWS: Gov. DeWine Signs SB1 into law—banning dei at ohio’s state colleges and universities

COLUMBUS—Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, or Senate Bill 1 (SB1), into law this afternoon.

SB1, sponsored by State Senator Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) bans DEI courses, training, and required statements; spending on DEI initiatives or programs with the same intent; and political and ideological litmus tests in all hiring, promotion, and admissions decisions at Ohio's state colleges and universities.

Credit: Office of the Governor Mike DeWine.

(From left to right): Representative Josh Williams; Senator Jerry Cirino; Governor DeWine; Representative Tom Young; Speaker Matt Huffman; and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel.

"No lawmaker or voter ever approved the creation of divisive DEI programs at Ohio's colleges and universities, yet millions of taxpayer dollars are being wasted on these harmful programs," said Aaron Baer, president of Center for Christian Virtue. "But with SB 1, Ohio is setting the course to right this wrong, and start fighting back against the politically toxic environment that's been spreading on our college campuses."

"I’m grateful to Governor DeWine for his swift action to sign Senate Bill 1, and to Senator Jerry Cirino, Speaker Matt Huffman, President Rob McColley, and House Higher Education Chairman Tom Young for their leadership in guiding this common-sense legislation to become law."

For more information, contact CCV at 513-733-5775 or contact@ccv.org. For media inquiries, email media@ccv.org.

As Ohio's largest Christian public policy organization, Center for Christian Virtue seeks the good of our neighbors by advocating for public policy that reflects the truth of the Gospel.

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