Since Cirino introduced the bill in March, higher ed experts and free speech advocates have raised concerns that it would chill free speech on campuses and inhibit Ohio colleges’ ability to compete for students and employees.
In May, Ohio’s Senate passed SB 83 in a 21-10 vote. But Ohio labor leaders expressed doubt that the bill would pass the House as it was written, citing the potential erosion of state employees’ collective bargaining rights.
Both chambers of the Legislature have a Republican supermajority. If lawmakers vote down party lines, the bill would easily make it to Republican Gov. Mike DeWine’s desk.
