Reps. Jarrells, Pizzulli Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Campus Safety

COLUMBUS – State Reps. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) today announced that they have introduced House Bill (HB) 511, a bipartisan bill that would provide more funding to make college campuses across Ohio safer. 

The legislation would increase the Campus Student Safety Grant Program from $1M to $11M each year, providing colleges and universities with the resources they need to strengthen security, improve emergency response, and prevent violence on campus.

“Every student deserves to learn, grow, and dream in an environment that is safe. This bill is about ensuring that every parent can send their child to college without fear, and every campus has the tools to protect its community. Safety is not partisan, it’s a promise we make to every student in Ohio,” said Rep. Jarrells.

If passed, the additional funding would support projects to improve campus lighting, security cameras, emergency communication systems, and safety training for students and staff.

HB 511 has been referred to the House Workforce and Higher Education Committee and awaits its first sponsor hearing.