Rep. Thomas, Ranking Member of Public Safety Committee, Denounces House Bill 1 as Harmful to Immigrant Communities

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Cecil Thomas (D-Cincinnati), ranking member of the House Public Safety Committee, Tuesday listened as Ohioans testified against House Bill (HB) 1, legislation he believes would have deeply harmful consequences for Ohio’s immigrant communities.

“We are a nation of immigrants,” said Rep. Thomas. “What makes us a great nation is the diversity of thought and experience that has shaped who we are today. Every individual here has contributed—and continues to contribute—to our growth. Unfortunately, this bill fosters division at a time when we should be striving for unity. While the bill’s intent may be understandable, the method proposed is fundamentally flawed. The only path forward is to introduce amendments that correct these issues. As it stands, this bill would make Ohio uninhabitable for many immigrant families. Discrimination is defined as treating someone unfairly or differently based on protected characteristics like race, sex, religion, or disability. That is exactly what this bill does.

He expressed gratitude to the many Ohioans who traveled to the Statehouse to share their personal stories and speak out in opposition.

“I want to thank all the individuals who came from across the state to testify,” said Rep. Thomas. “As the ranking member of the Public Safety Committee, I stand firmly with our immigrant communities and urge the committee to remove the harmful provisions from this bill.”

Highlights from Tuesday’s committee hearing included:

• “Let’s be honest—this is discrimination dressed up as security.”
  — Jay Qutiefan
• “I recently became a mother. How will I explain to my son that we’re not welcome here—just because of where we come from? The idea that he could grow up surrounded by hate in his own country breaks my heart.”
  — Xin Yuan
• “I love Ohio. I have never wanted to leave. But this bill will not make our state safer or stronger. It will drive out skilled workers, eliminate valuable economic contributions, and send a message to the world that Ohio is not a welcoming place. That would be a profound loss for all of us.”
  — Chris Malick
• “These two bills—HB 1 and SB 88—have made us feel deeply frustrated and heartbroken. This is racist and discriminatory.”
  — Yuan Ye
• “Our founding fathers declared that ‘all men are created equal.’ Let’s live up to that principle by treating everyone equally, regardless of where they come from. Let’s keep Ohio a place where everyone, no matter their race or origin, can build a future.”
  — Caixia Jin

Rep. Thomas reaffirmed his commitment to advancing policies that promote equality, inclusion, and dignity for all Ohioans. He also noted that Chair Abrams has agreed to explore amendments to the bill that would address these critical concerns.

Tuesday’s hearing can be viewed in its entirety here. 

EDITOR’S NOTE: Pictures from committee are attached to this press release. Courtesy: Rep. Thomas’ office.