SB 83 would bring significant changes to Ohio’s public colleges and universities

The bill is receiving mixed reactions.

TOLEDO, Ohio — Introduced back on March 14th of this year, Senate Bill 83, dubbed the Enact Ohio Higher Education Enhancement Act — if passed by the house — would be a major hit to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts at Ohio’s public colleges and universities.

SB 83’s primary sponsor is Cuyahoga County-area Senator Jerry Cirino. The bill, which currently resides in the House Higher Education Committee, would do many things — but let’s stick to the main points:

• It would outlaw any mandatory diversity, equity, and inclusion programs or training courses, with the exception being that the course or program is required for certain, specified purposes

• Ban faculty strikes

• Prevent universities from taking a stance on “controversial” topics

So, what is the whole point of this, according to Senator Cirino?

In a news release following the bill’s passage, he was quoted as saying: “No student should ever be ostracized, canceled, or have to worry about a failing grade for merely daring to have a difference of opinion with classmates or a professor.” Adding that, “It is essential for students to learn how to think rather than what to think, and how to listen to opposing views with a respectful but critical ear.”

While the senator stands behind his bill, officials from some Ohio universities are speaking out against it. The Cincinnati Enquirer reports both the presidents of the University of Cincinnati and Miami University — as well as many others — have backed a letter sent to Cirino, saying the bill is an example of government overreach, increased bureaucracy, and something that would be costly to implement.

So, for now, we wait and see how things play out.