Ingram Condemns Introduction of Senate Bill 1

Today, state Senator Catherine D. Ingram (D-Cincinnati) issued the following statement after the introduction of Senate Bill 1, which would drastically impact the higher education landscape in Ohio. 

“The reality is that there remains a pressing need to ensure marginalized people are included and that their true merit is recognized, rather than being dismissed as 'reverse discrimination' whenever inclusion is intentional,” said Ingram. “The sponsor of this bill suggests that those with the 'right' thoughts and morals should be the ones leading and dictating what should be taught and that professors should simply teach what they're told, under any conditions. This mindset undermines the very essence of higher education—encouraging critical thought, open dialogue, and diverse perspectives. Instead of fostering an environment of learning and growth, it seeks to impose ideological conformity, limiting academic freedom and the true potential of our institutions.”

S.B. 1 would prevent higher education employees from striking and prohibit the implementation of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. Furthermore, it will prevent the academic freedom of colleges and universities by barring their ability to endorse or oppose any controversial beliefs, policies, concepts, or ideologies.

This bill is a reintroduction of the highly controversial S.B. 83 from the last General Assembly. In the previous session, it faced bipartisan opposition in both chambers as well as opponent testimony from nearly 500 Ohioans and organizations. 

 S.B. 1 awaits committee assignment.