What This Bill Does
HB 155 would prohibit "DEI" programs and structures in Ohio public schools. While branded as a general DEI ban, the bill's restrictions explicitly reach contractors whose work would "promote admissions, hiring, or promotion" based on "race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression."
Impact on LGBTQIA+ Ohioans
The explicit listing of sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression in the contracting restriction is a clear signal that LGBTQIA+-related equity work is within its intended scope. In practice, this can discourage or prohibit school systems from using external expertise for LGBTQIA+-inclusive policies, climate work, staff trainings, or student-support programming.
Legal & Constitutional Risks
- Vagueness — "DEI" is not defined, creating chilling effects and uneven enforcement
- Viewpoint Discrimination — Targeting specific identity categories in contracting restrictions
- Federal Conflict — State restrictions may conflict with schools' obligations under federal civil rights frameworks