SB 113
Prohibit DEI in Public Schools (Senate)
Senate DEI Ban
Official title: "Prohibit diversity, equity, and inclusion in public schools"
In Committee
What This Bill Does
SB 113 is the Senate companion to HB 155. It requires school boards to adopt and enforce a policy prohibiting multiple DEI-related structures and practices, including DEI training courses, DEI offices/departments, and certain contracting.
Impact on LGBTQIA+ Ohioans
Like HB 155, this type of structure can suppress LGBTQIA+-inclusive initiatives even when framed as general "DEI," because LGBTQIA+ inclusion work is frequently operationalized through trainings, support offices, and policy review. Having companion bills in both chambers increases the chance of legislative action.
Legal & Constitutional Risks
- Undefined Key Terms — Same vagueness concerns as HB 155
- Chilling Effects — Potential to induce viewpoint-based enforcement in school governance
- Impacts hinge on how schools and enforcement bodies interpret "DEI" broadly
Timeline
February 25, 2025
Introduced in the Senate
February 26, 2025
Referred to Senate Education Committee
March 4 & 25, 2025
First and second committee hearings
May 19, 2026
Third hearing in Senate Education