While awaiting Gov. Mike DeWine’s signature, Jewish leaders in the Ohio Legislature are applauding the passage of a bill that equips Ohio colleges and universities with tools to enhance student safety and create inclusive environments.
On Friday, the Ohio Jewish Caucus celebrated the passage of the Campus Accountability and Modernization to Protect University Students Act, which was approved by the House and Senate during a marathon session that concluded early Thursday morning.
Members of the Jewish Caucus, Reps. Casey Weinstein, D-Hudson, Dani Isaacsohn, D-Cincinnati, and Beryl Brown Piccolantonio, D-Gahana, teamed up with Reps. Dontavius Jarrells, R-Columbus, and Justin Pizzulli, R-Scioto County, to advocate for the bill.
What Does the Bill Say?
Once signed by DeWine, the bill will provide emergency security measures and grants to support interfaith and community-building initiatives on campuses.
“Every student deserves to live, study, and grow in an environment where they feel safe and respected,” the Jewish Caucus members said in a release. “This year has brought tremendous turmoil on our campuses, and we spent months listening to diverse student voices share their fears, frustrations, and wishes. We are hopeful that the Campus Act will create a healthier and safer environment when students return to school this fall.”
As previously reported by The Center Square, the act provides campus safety grants, intergroup and interfaith grants, and enforces anti-harassment policies at colleges and universities.
Also on Friday, Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine signed the state’s $4.2 billion capital budget and approved $700 million for community projects.
The $700 million in one-time spending comes from excess state tax collections.
As previously reported by The Center Square, the projects and capital budget include $600 million for building new school facilities and $200 million for the state fairgrounds.
SB292 allocates $572 million for the Public Works Commission and $310 million for the Department of Natural Resources.
It also designates $8.5 million for Millikin interchange improvements, $20 million for the Cuyahoga County Northcoast Connector, $8 million for Bedrock Riverfront Development, and $7 million to expand and renovate the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Other projects include $18.5 million for the Columbus Symphony Orchestra, $10 million for the downtown Columbus Capital Line, $12 million for the Cedarville Opera House, and $16.3 million for the Ohio Library and Information Network.