Republicans Prioritize Censorship, Discrimination Over Freedoms, Economic Growth with SB 1's Passage

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) today responded to the House passage of Senate Bill (SB) 1, the Higher Education Destruction Act: 

“I am truly saddened but not surprised by the government overhaul that was displayed during session today. Senate Bill 1 was pushed through the Statehouse unusually fast and will prove costly to Ohioans; banning scholarships based on DEI criteria creates yet another hurdle for minority communities who already face systemic barriers. I am appalled that in a time where public education funding has been cut, property taxes are skyrocketing, and the economy is out of control- this is something my colleagues choose to place as our top priority. There were hours of opposition testimony from students and teachers alike and I am disgusted that we would not take into consideration those that are affected most from this ban,” said Rep. Upchurch.

In trying to solve problems that do not exist, SB 1 creates new issues that will increase costs, stifle growth, and prevent Ohio’s young adults from reaching their full potential.