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Rep. Upchurch Issues Statement on HB 6

July 29, 2020
Terrence Upchurch News

COLUMBUS – State Representative Terrence Upchurch (D-Cleveland) released the following statement regarding House Bill (HB) 6:

“From the moment I announced my intentions to seek public office, I believed a dedicated government could root out injustice and build a fairer community for all. Those beliefs are why I am proud of the work I have done to push for reforms that fulfill our promise of equality for all as well as fight for justice against corruption and special interest that doesn’t protect the needs and well-being of our citizens.

These beliefs have been my guiding principles from the moment I placed my hand on the Bible in front of friends and family as I took the oath of office. It is also why I believe public servants must always hold themselves and their counterparts to the highest ethical standards. In light of the shocking, recent criminal charges of wrongdoing issued by the U.S. Attorney’s Office against Speaker of the House Larry Householder, and five others, I want to make clear my own views concerning House Bill 6 and the support I received previously from the First Energy Corporation PAC.

First, I fully intend to co-sponsor and vote for a bill to repeal HB 6, as this is the right thing to do. The past several days have been extremely hard for Ohio and this only way to begin to fully regain the trust of the people of Ohio. When considering my vote prior to supporting HB 6, I resolved to stand with labor and the everyday men and women whose livelihood depended on these jobs and the communities that would have been impacted. That preservation of livelihood has always been my purpose when supporting any legislation in the Ohio House. Secondly, I will be contributing to charity the $3,500 in contributions given to my campaign committee by the First Energy Corporation PAC. I am extremely disappointed in their alleged actions given their position as a large employer and corporate citizen in Northeast, Ohio. To be clear, I have never considered a vote on legislation for any reason other than what is best for my district residents and Ohio citizens. I believe these steps are necessary so that you may continue to hold me accountable as an elected official.

I remain humbled to have been sent to Columbus to work for the great citizens of District 10 and the state of Ohio. Serving the state that I love has been my greatest achievement. I look forward to your continued support as State Representative for District 10.”

*A copy of a letter addressed to Rep. Upchurch’s constituents is attached.

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Rep. Upchurch Issues Statement on HB 6 (PDF)