Rep. Jarrells denounces anti-protest bill

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Rep. Jarrells (D-Columbus) issued a statement following the House passage of House Bill (HB) 109, Republican legislation that would increase penalties and create new criminal offenses related to riots. 

HB 109 would, in effect, discourage Ohioans from participating in lawful protests and civil demonstrations for fear of running afoul of the proposed law’s broad and vague language. The bill’s wide-reaching provisions would also put philanthropic organizations at risk of prosecution due to unintended association with bad actors at a protest.

“I am extremely disappointed in the passage of HB 109. I saw my constituents, my neighbors, some as young as 5 years old, speak out against racial inequality, and I stood with them in the middle of street, walked with them, and shouted as we called for change. HB 109’s vague language intimidates individuals who exercise their First Amendment right and silences the voices of many of my constituents,” said Rep. Jarrells.

HB 109 now proceeds to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.