LGBTQ Anti-Discrimination Law Proposed In Ohio

COLUMBUS, OH — A new law proposed in Ohio would bar discrimination against the LGBTQ community in housing, employment and public accommodations. The Ohio Fairness Act was introduced this week by Lakewood State Rep. Mike Skindell and Urichsville State Rep. Brett Hillyer.

"As we work to grow our economy and lower unemployment, we must not allow discrimination of any form to occur,” said Skindell, a Democrat. “Qualified and competent employees can currently lose their jobs because of who they are or whom they love. Ohio should be a welcoming place to attract and retain the most talented workers. This legislation will also provide equity and fairness in the housing market.”

Unlike much of the West Coast and New England, Ohio lacks clear non-discrimination protections for LGBTQ residents, according to Movement Advancement Project, yet the Buckeye State is home to more than 390,000 people who identify as part of the LGBTQ community. More than 800 Ohio businesses, all part of the Ohio Business Competes group, back the Fairness Act.

“The great Woody Hayes said it best, ‘you win with people,’” said Hillyer, a Republican. “People matter and should be protected in their workplace and in public.”

The Ohio Fairness Act needs to be assigned a bill number and a committee in the Ohio House.

Last year, Cuyahoga County became the first Ohio county to pass anti-discrimination laws protecting the LGBTQ community. Cuyahoga also created a human rights committee to investigate claims of abuse and discrimination.