Representative Jones Announces House Passage of Higher Education Degree Attainment Reform Legislation

COLUMBUS— Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) today announced the Ohio House passage of House Bill 9, legislation that addresses Higher Education Degree Attainment Reform. The goal of the legislation, sponsored by State Representatives Don Jones (R-Freeport) and Bride Sweeney (D-Cleveland), is to help more students graduate in four years, so they can begin their careers and keep student debt low.

The bipartisan legislation contains common sense reforms to improve credit transfers from one public school to another, and help students who have left school determine if, with the coursework they have completed, they are eligible for an associate’s degree or job training certificate.

“Many of our students attending institutions of higher education are not completing their degrees in four years or less,” said Speaker Householder. “This legislation will help students enter the workforce and begin their careers. When students are having to stay longer to complete a degree, they are accumulating more debt. It’s time we help our students stay on track with their education or help them see if they’re eligible for an associate’s degree or certificate.”

House Bill 9 is one of the bipartisan priority bills for the 133rd General Assembly, legislation that builds pillars for a stronger Ohio.

“I am excited the House passed HB 9 today,” said Rep. Jones. “As a teacher for 23 years, education is a personal priority, and I am glad it is also a priority for the entire House. HB 9 is going to help more people get degrees. The legislation will also help more people get their degrees on time. HB 9 in the long run will help Ohio create a highly educated workforce.”

HB 9 passed the Ohio House unanimously and now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.