Senator Kearney Issues Statement on Possible Repeal of HB 194

Columbus – Senate Democratic Leader Eric H. Kearney (D-Cincinnati) issued the following statement today in response to Republican efforts to repeal House Bill 194 before Ohioans have a chance to reject the voter suppression legislation through a statewide referendum:


“Republicans apparently learned their lesson from Senate Bill 5. To avoid suffering another stinging defeat at the ballot box, they have decided to repeal House Bill 194 before Ohioans have an opportunity to reject it.


“It has become abundantly clear that the repeal is a political maneuver designed to circumvent Ohio’s constitution. This sets a dangerous precedent for future referendums.


“Referendums are an essential component of the checks and balances in our constitution. It is a right that belongs to the people and the General Assembly should not infringe upon it. Repealing HB 194 would make a mockery of the referendum process.”

The repeal of HB 194 is scheduled for a hearing Wednesday morning in the Senate Government Oversight and Reform committee. The repeal legislation is designated as Senate Bill 295.