House Committee unanimously approves bill allowing state university trustees to meet virtually

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Cleveland) announced today that the Ohio House Higher Education Committee voted in favor of House Bill (HB) 404, sponsored by Sweeney and Rep. Susan Manchester (R-Waynesfield), to allow state university trustees to attend meetings virtually.

“I am proud to be a part of this bipartisan effort to give trustees the flexibility to do their jobs safely and effectively,” said Rep. Sweeney. “This legislation could not be more timely, because the COVID-19 pandemic has upended colleges and universities across the State of Ohio. As the crisis poses new challenges for Ohio’s future, I am determined to find innovative solutions that support college students and the institutions of higher education that they attend.”

This legislation would offer flexibility and convenience for trustees by allowing state university trustees to adopt their own electronic communication policies. Additionally, as social distancing measures currently make it difficult to hold in-person meetings and universities face new challenges in planning for their fall semesters, this bill would allow state trustees to continue conducting vital operations in a safe and healthy manner.

With today’s affirmative committee vote, HB 404 now awaits consideration by the full Ohio House of Representatives.

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