Rep. Somani: HB 249 Unfairly Targets LGBTQ+ Ohioans and Does Nothing to Address Real Issues

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Anita Somani (D-Dublin) today issued the following statement on House Bill (HB) 249, legislation that would ban drag shows outside of nightclubs and targets members of the LGBTQ+ community: 

“This is yet another example of House Republicans fixating on cultural war issues that ultimately do nothing to improve the lives of everyday Ohioans, but do cause immense harm to already marginalized communities. Our LGBTQ+ constituents are simply trying to live  in an increasingly unfriendly state, and they don’t need more Republican bills targeting them. These bills only increase hate crimes against our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors. Instead of passing hateful legislation, my Republican colleagues should be working with our caucus to address real issues, such as skyrocketing childcare costs, unsustainable energy and grocery prices, and burdensome healthcare bills.”

HB 249 passed on Wednesday by a vote of 63-32, with all House Democrats and one House Republican voting no.  The bill now advances to the Senate.