Higher Education Bill Stalls at Ohio Statehouse

July 11, 2024

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Ohio State Senator Jerry Cirino expressed urgency in passing a significant overhaul of higher education policies affecting public universities and community colleges, with only two votes needed to finalize the revision. Meanwhile, Steve Mockabee, a University of Cincinnati professor and president of the university’s American Association of University Professors, strongly criticized the proposed changes, labeling them as potentially devastating and referring to the initiative as the “Higher Education Destruction Act.”

Key Highlight:

Senate Bill 83, also known as the Higher Education Enhancement Act and sponsored by Senator Jerry Cirino, was introduced over a year ago and is currently in its eleventh version. Despite potential progress, the bill has been delayed in the Ohio House and could have reached the governor’s desk seven months earlier. Senator Cirino emphasized the need for higher education reform in Ohio, expressing frustration over the stalled legislative process in the House.
Senate Bill 83, which has undergone 11 revisions and was passed by the Ohio Senate over a year ago, has been ready for a House vote since December. Despite this readiness, the bill has not progressed to the governor’s desk, and there is limited time left in this General Assembly session. Senator Jerry Cirino expressed concern that if the bill is not addressed before the new legislative session, its fate is uncertain. Steve Mockabee, president of the American Association of University Professors at the University of Cincinnati, criticized SB83, warning that its enactment could severely undermine the quality of higher education in Ohio, potentially leading to irreparable damage.
Ohio House Speaker Jason Stephens stated that discussions around Senate Bill 83 (SB83) have been ongoing within his caucus, emphasizing the importance of freedom of expression on college campuses. He acknowledged the caucus’s clear stance on the bill but expressed openness to further discussion, highlighting his approach to keeping dialogue open on all issues. SB83 includes over 20 provisions aimed at state institutions, such as prohibiting certain race and sex-related training for faculty and mandating specific readings in American government classes as outlined in the bill.
Senate Bill 83 (SB83) is criticized by Steve Mockabee as governmental overreach, aiming to control higher education and limit students’ access to a well-rounded education informed by faculty expertise. Senator Jerry Cirino argues that educating students fully about American history, both its positives and negatives, is crucial despite potential pushback. SB83 also restricts schools from taking stances on controversial issues like immigration and abortion, which Mockabee sees as ironic because the bill claims to support intellectual diversity and free speech while dictating how certain topics, such as climate change and elections, are taught.
Senator Jerry Cirino argues that Senate Bill 83 aims to create a campus environment where conservative students feel comfortable expressing their views without self-censorship. He asserts that the bill promotes more speech opportunities and diverse opinions, challenging accusations that it limits free speech. In contrast, Steve Mockabee dismisses the notion that faculty indoctrinate students, describing universities as places where ideas compete freely. He criticizes SB83 sponsors for imposing their own ideas through legislation that also alters tenure review processes and limits faculty collective bargaining rights.
Steve Mockabee counters misconceptions about tenure, stating it doesn’t guarantee lifetime job security but protects faculty from dismissal over controversial teachings. He refutes claims of widespread faculty idleness as inaccurate and offensive.
SB83 also modifies diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) laws by prohibiting mandatory DEI training. Mockabee defends DEI programs as essential for student success, providing support for first-generation college students and those with disabilities, and asserts that most DEI initiatives aim to assist students without disadvantaging others.
Senator Jerry Cirino asserts that Senate Bill 83 aims to enhance free speech opportunities and foster a diverse environment in Ohio universities. Despite significant opposition with nearly 600 opponents at the statehouse and minimal supporters, Cirino claims many backers are reluctant to testify publicly due to fears of repercussions from faculty and students.
Steve Mockabee counters that the overwhelming opposition to SB 83 should send a clear message to legislators about its unpopularity among Ohioans. He emphasizes that genuine concerns about the bill’s implications should prompt reconsideration of its provisions.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine characterized Senate Bill 83 as a work in progress, expressing hope for achieving consensus in favor of the bill. He indicated that while iterations of the bill are ongoing, it is premature for him to provide detailed commentary until a more finalized version is developed, suggesting optimism about eventually passing and signing the legislation.