Reps. Jarrells, Pizzulli's CAMPUS Act Advances Through Legislature, Heads to Governor DeWine's Desk as Part of SB 94 Omnibus

COLUMBUS — State Reps. Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) and Justin Pizzulli (R-Scioto County) saw their bill, House Bill (HB) 606, passed out of both chambers today. HB 606 was added as an amendment to Senate Bill (SB) 94, an omnibus bill that covered a range of topics, which was passed by the House and then concurred upon in the Senate during their respective sessions.

“House Bill 606 is a comprehensive effort to address the alarming rise in racial, religious, and ethnically charged acts of harassment and intimidation on our college campuses,” said Rep. Jarrells. “I want to thank my joint sponsor Rep. Pizzulli, my colleagues in the Jewish Caucus, and the student voices we’ve been listening to on this matter for their support, perspectives, and leadership. Their input has been key to developing a bill that I am optimistic can bring forth positive change.” 

The Campus Security Support Program (CAMPUS Act) requires the establishment of a uniform reporting system on hate incidents at institutions of higher education. This system requires annual reporting of all allegations and documented incidents of bias, harassment, and intimidation. These reports will be reviewed by the Chancellor, the Attorney General, and the United States Attorneys for the Northern and Southern Districts of Ohio, ensuring that no incident goes unnoticed or unaddressed. 

HB 606 also emphasizes the importance of community and interfaith initiatives. The bill provides funding for the Campus Student Safety Grant Program, appropriating $1M in FY 2025 to enhance security measures at on- and off-campus locations. Another $1M is appropriated for the Campus Community Grant Program, which will fund intergroup and interfaith outreach, fostering cultural competencey and understanding among students. 

Furthermore, the Campus Security Support Program allocates $2M in FY 2025 to support student organizations affiliated with communities at risk for increased threats of violent crime, terror attacks, hate crimes, or harassment. 

“Our students need us to do more to address the rise in acts of hate and fear on campus,” said Rep. Jarrells. “We must be clear: hate of any form is unacceptable. This bill is about transparency, accountability, and empowering students to foster trust and build bridges across differences.” 

HB 606, and SB 94 are set to be presented to Governor DeWine in the coming days.