36 States have laws addressing hate or bias crimes based on sexual orientation or gender identity, but Ohio is not one of them. Sadly, Ohio ranks #6 in hate crimes nationwide, with 16% of reported hate crimes across the state targeting people because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Rep. Michael Stinziano (D-76) recently proposed HB 235 to correct this injustice, but it is up to everyone of us to get this bill through the Committee on Criminal Justice so that it may be voted upon in the Ohio State House of Representatives.

By signing this petition, you will tell the committee members to ensure that these much needed protections are made now!