1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to vote NO on HB 249. This bill does not reflect the responsibility you hold to serve and protect all constituents. Instead, it targets specific members of our community in a way that is harmful, exclusionary, and inconsistent with the values of fairness and dignity that should guide public policy. Legislation should improve the lives of Ohioans. It should expand opportunity, strengthen communities, and ensure that every person is treated with respect under the law. HB 249 does the opposite. It singles out individuals and sends a clear message that some people are less worthy of protection, recognition, and belonging. That is not leadership. At a time when many Ohioans are facing real challenges—economic pressure, access to healthcare, and community stability—this bill diverts attention away from meaningful solutions and toward policies that create division and harm. I am asking you to take a clear stand: reject HB 249 and focus your efforts on policies that support and uplift all people in our state. Your vote on this bill will signal what kind of leadership you choose to provide.