Hicks-Hudson Statement on House Bill 57 Vote

Today, state Senator Paula Hicks-Hudson (D-Toledo) voted against House Bill 57 after the Ohio Senate majority added a last-minute amendment that was not fully vetted and may negatively impact children’s education.

“What began as a good bipartisan bill to ensure schools are prepared to respond to health emergencies was hijacked by an amendment that had not gone through the committee process or received full review,” said Hicks-Hudson. “This is not how we should legislate, especially when it comes to the education of our children. Rushing through policy changes without fully understanding their consequences undermines the trust Ohioans place in us to make thoughtful, informed decisions.”

Originally, HB 57 addressed school policies on administering overdose reversal drugs, an issue with broad bipartisan support. However, the Senate majority introduced an amendment dealing with school release time for religious instruction. This change was made without adequate opportunity to determine its impact on children’s education, school operations, or the rights of families and communities.