Ohio Enacts Controversial Higher Education Reform Law

On March 28, 2025, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed into law Senate Bill 1, known as the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act, introducing sweeping reforms to the state's public higher education system. The legislation, which took effect on June 27, 2025, has sparked significant debate over its impact on academic freedom, labor rights, and institutional policies.

Senate Bill 1 encompasses several key provisions:

• Banning Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs: The law prohibits public colleges and universities from conducting DEI training or orientation, incorporating DEI in job descriptions, or offering new scholarships based on DEI criteria. (cleveland19.com)

• Prohibiting Faculty Strikes: Faculty members are barred from striking, affecting collective bargaining rights. (apnews.com)

• Mandating Civics Education: All college students are required to complete a three-hour civics course covering foundational American documents. (apnews.com)

• Restricting Institutional Positions on Controversial Issues: Institutions are limited from taking official stances on topics such as climate change, immigration, and abortion. (apnews.com)

• Enhancing Transparency: The law requires public disclosure of course syllabi and instructor qualifications. (axios.com)

Supporters of the legislation argue that it promotes intellectual diversity and free speech on campuses. Senator Jerry C. Cirino, the bill's primary sponsor, stated that the law aims to "return our public universities and colleges to their rightful mission of education rather than indoctrination." (ohiosenate.gov)

Opponents contend that the legislation undermines academic freedom and labor rights. House Minority Leader Allison Russo criticized the bill, stating it "stifles intellectual freedom and diversity." (apnews.com)

Efforts to repeal the law through a petition campaign failed to gather the required 250,000 signatures, allowing the legislation to take effect as scheduled. (apnews.com)

Public universities have been working to comply with the new law. For instance, Ohio State University established an implementation committee to ensure adherence to the legislation's requirements. (kent.edu)

The enactment of Senate Bill 1 has sparked significant debate regarding the balance between promoting intellectual diversity and preserving academic freedom. The prohibition of DEI programs and faculty strikes raises questions about the future of inclusivity and labor relations within Ohio's higher education institutions. Additionally, the mandate for civics education reflects a broader national conversation about the role of higher education in fostering civic engagement.

As Ohio's public colleges and universities adapt to these changes, the long-term impact of Senate Bill 1 on the state's educational landscape remains to be seen.