ABLE Opposes HB 206: Advocating for Vulnerable Students

On December 11, 2024, Renee Murphy, Managing Attorney at Advocates for Basic Legal Equality (ABLE), testified before the Ohio Senate Education Committee in opposition to House Bill 206. The bill, which proposes endlessly extendable student expulsions, threatens to undermine student rights and disproportionately harm vulnerable populations.

Murphy outlined numerous concerns, including violations of constitutional protections like freedom of speech and due process, as well as conflicts with federal disability laws such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. She warned that the bill’s vague language and lack of oversight could lead to discriminatory practices targeting students with disabilities, low-income families, and minority groups.

While recognizing the intent behind the bill to improve school safety and provide mental health support, Murphy argued that HB 206 fails to achieve these goals. Instead, it grants school districts unchecked discretion to impose indefinite expulsions without accountability, creating barriers to education rather than solutions.

ABLE supports alternative approaches, including robust mental health services and ongoing educational support during expulsions. However, Murphy noted that Ohio’s strained mental health resources could make these services inaccessible, further marginalizing affected students.

ABLE stands firmly against HB 206, advocating instead for policies that promote equity and protect vulnerable students. As Murphy stated, "This bill creates discretion without guardrails, which can and will be used against students who are most vulnerable and in need of support."

Read ABLE’s Senate Opposition Testimony of HB 206 here.