Ohio lawmakers are sending a controversial bill that overhauls the higher education system — banning diversity initiatives, limiting how “controversial topics” can be taught, and eliminating tenure — to Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk. Previously, he said he would likely sign it, but on Monday, he said he was “still looking at it.”
Senate Bill 1, formerly known as S.B. 83 last General Assembly, was introduced by Senate Finance Chair Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland). It is meant to prevent so-called liberal bias.
This massive bill focuses on what Cirino calls “free speech,” banning public universities in Ohio from Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives, having “bias” in the classroom, and limiting how “controversial topics” can and can’t be taught. Eliminating DEI would mean no diversity offices, training, or scholarships…