1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I am writing as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, an Ohio small business owner, and someone deeply committed to the wellbeing of our communities to respectfully urge you to veto Senate Bill 293. As you know, SB 293 would eliminate the four-day return window for mailed ballots received after Election Day—an existing safeguard that supports thousands of Ohioans, including seniors, people with disabilities, service members, caregivers, and those working multiple jobs. For many of the clients and communities I serve, the absentee voting process is not merely a convenience; it is a vital accessibility measure that makes civic participation possible. But beyond the clear harm this bill would cause, I am especially concerned about the tension between SB 293 and your previously stated commitment not to pursue further changes to Ohio’s voting procedures. Many Ohioans took that statement as a promise, and they trusted it. If SB 293 were signed into law, it would understandably be perceived as a reversal of that commitment. At a time when public confidence in government is already fragile, maintaining consistency and honoring prior statements is essential for rebuilding trust. As a counselor, I teach and practice the value of congruence—aligning words and actions to promote integrity, safety, and credibility in relationships. This principle is no less important in leadership. Your decision here has the potential to reaffirm for millions of Ohioans that their governor stands by his word and stands with the people he serves. I recognize the pressures and complexities that accompany these legislative decisions. Still, I urge you to consider the long-term impact this bill would have not only on voting access, but on the public’s faith in our democratic institutions. Vetoing SB 293 would send a clear message that Ohio will protect accessible elections and uphold commitments made to its voters. Thank you for your continued service to our state, and for your consideration of this request. Respectfully