Did you see the huge win for Christian businesses last month? On March 28, Governor Mike DeWine signed the Advance Ohio Higher Education Act (Senate Bill 1) into law—a major victory for businesses, education, and free thought!

The new law ends forced DEI programs at Ohio’s state colleges and universities by:

  • Banning required DEI courses, training, and statements
  • Stopping taxpayer dollars from funding DEI initiatives and programs
  • Eliminating political and ideological litmus tests in hiring, promotion, and admissions

(From left to right): Representative Josh Williams; Senator Jerry Cirino; Governor DeWine; Representative Tom Young; Speaker Matt Huffman; and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel. Credit: Office of the Governor Mike DeWine.

How Does this Help Ohio Businesses?

The Advance Ohio Higher Education Act will benefit your business by:

  • Ensuring graduates receive an education focused on real-world skills—not a political ideology.
  • Improving the quality of education so employers see a higher level of aptitude in their future workforce.

In his speech before the House, Rep. Josh Williams shared his personal background of growing up in poverty, facing racism within his own family, and overcoming significant challenges to become a lawyer and state representative. He contended that DEI policies are ineffective and harmful, promoting racial stereotypes, lowering standards, and failing to address the root causes of underrepresentation. Instead, he advocated for improving inner-city education and workforce development as real solutions. The reality is that Ohio colleges and universities have been spending millions of taxpayer dollars on DEI programs that restrict open discussion and critical thinking—two of the most important skills for businesses to thrive.

Celebrate With Us!

This victory was no accident. It took months of advocacy, strategic planning, and testimony from leaders like our Executive Director, Monty Lobb, who worked tirelessly to advance this bill. A huge win this early in the year is an incredible accomplishment! The Advance Ohio Higher Education Act was the first bill to be introduced in the 136th General Assembly, which met for the first time on January 6. It was also the first bill on our legislative agenda. Now, less than 100 days later, this common-sense policy is law.

When Christian business owners join forces, we create real impact. Thank you for being part of this community as we advocate for policies that protect our values, secure benefits that strengthen our businesses, and continue to achieve what none of us could do alone!