News & Commentary

HB 487 perpetuates the failed (and very expensive) belief we can punish and incarcerate our way out of our drug problems. The ACLU of Ohio urges this committee’s rejection of House Bill 487.

HB 31 would expand Ohio’s public records laws to require recordings of full parole board hearings conducted by the Ohio Parole Board and to allow those recordings and transcriptions to be requested and received by the public.

This map will result in some Ohioans’ votes weighing more than others, subjecting the people of Ohio to yet another setback in the pursuit of basic fairness in their representation.

SB 143 is an uncomplicated bill that recognizes two truths here in Ohio. One, lots of Ohioans have a criminal record. Two, those people often have a much more difficult time finding a job or even being considered for employment.

Senate Bill 55 is such a noticeable improvement over current law, the ACLU of Ohio is compelled to support this bill and urge its passage. But, we do urge this committee and the various stakeholders involved to further improve this legislation.

House Bill 296 is a straightforward approach to easing the often insurmountable burdens faced by neighbors returning to our communities from Ohio’s prisons and transitional control.

Laws and legislation, like HB 20, inherently cast too wide of a net, impacting First Amendment rights.

SB 88 broadly bans the ownership of property in and throughout Ohio by governments deemed to be foreign adversaries or supporters of terrorism, among other possible designations and considerations.

The ACLU of Ohio believes there are aspects of Amended House Bill 5 worthy of additional and thorough consideration so you, and all Ohioans, know the complete ramifications of its passage.