A resolution introduced last week to declare racism a public health crisis in the state is getting its first hearing in the Republican-dominated Ohio Senate, where one member of the GOP has joined eight Democrats in sponsoring the measure. Though it wouldn’t have the same legal impact as a law, this proposal faces an uphill battle. Ohio Public Radio's Karen Kasler reports.
A similar resolution has been introduced in the House, and none of the 34 sponsors are Republicans. Majority Leader Bill Seitz said on Twitter that Republicans won’t be bullied into passing it without a hearing. Sponsoring Democratic Rep. Stephanie Howse says her caucus is determined.
“We are focused beyond politics. We focus in on people. People will have conversations with their constituents. The people will always have the last say. People are understanding whether the power truly is. It's in the people.”
Another reaction came from Republican Representative Nino Vitale, who’s blasted the state’s COVID-19 policies and shutdowns. He suggested on Facebook that the resolution could bring similar actions to those he’s criticized.
