The Advance Ohio Higher Education Act proposes significant amendments to the governance and operation of state institutions of higher education in Ohio. Key provisions include the requirement for the chancellor of higher education to develop annual educational programs for board members, covering fiduciary duties, ethics, and financial management. The bill modifies trustee terms, establishing a six-year term for those appointed on or after July 1, 2025, while maintaining a nine-year term for those appointed prior to that date. It also clarifies that student members of the boards will not have voting power or be counted towards quorum requirements. Additionally, the bill mandates that course syllabi be made publicly accessible starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, enhancing transparency for students.

Further, the bill introduces policies aimed at promoting intellectual diversity and prohibits state institutions from engaging in diversity, equity, and inclusion training. It requires institutions to develop a course on American civic literacy, mandates compliance with guidelines established by the chancellor, and outlines a process for retrenchment in response to fiscal pressures. The legislation also addresses collective bargaining processes for public employees, prohibiting strikes for certain public employees and establishing a citizens' conciliation council for dispute resolution. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance accountability, transparency, and equity within Ohio's higher education system while addressing governance and fiscal challenges.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 3335.02, 3335.09, 3337.01, 3339.01, 3341.02, 3343.02, 3344.01, 3345.45, 3350.10, 3352.01, 3356.01, 3359.01, 3361.01, 3362.01, 3364.01, 4117.14, 4117.15, 3333.045
As Reported By Senate Committee: 3335.02, 3335.09, 3337.01, 3339.01, 3341.02, 3343.02, 3344.01, 3345.45, 3350.10, 3352.01, 3356.01, 3359.01, 3361.01, 3362.01, 3364.01, 4117.14, 4117.15, 3333.045
As Passed By Senate: 3335.02, 3335.09, 3337.01, 3339.01, 3341.02, 3343.02, 3344.01, 3345.45, 3350.10, 3352.01, 3356.01, 3359.01, 3361.01, 3362.01, 3364.01, 4117.14, 4117.15, 3333.045