Ohio School Board Bill Sparks Debate Over Party Labels and State Control

Currently, the State Board includes eight appointed members and eleven elected members. Under the new measure, elected seats will disappear when current terms end or if vacancies occur. Three appointed seats will also be phased out as early terms expire.A renewed debate has emerged as lawmakers revisit the Ohio school board bill. The proposal adds party labels to local school board candidates and removes all elected seats from the State Board of Education. As a result, the governor would appoint every member of the board.
The Senate General Government Committee recently reviewed the bill. While its original purpose focused on adding partisan labels to school board races, new amendments significantly expanded its scope. These changes align with the state budget passed earlier this year, which called for reducing the board to five appointed members.

Supporters Argue Voters Need More Information

Supporters say the bill increases transparency. Lisa Breedlove Chaffee, a member of Parents Rights in Education, told lawmakers that voters cannot understand a candidate’s values without a party label. She argued that today’s debates about curriculum, parental rights, and literacy make clear information essential.
Chaffee acknowledged that some voters choose candidates by party alone. However, she believes this bill will encourage more people to vote and inspire deeper research. She added that she sometimes skips nonpartisan races because the ballot offers no clues about a candidate’s beliefs.
The Ohio chapter of Americans for Prosperity also supported the bill. Their testimony stated that party affiliation helps voters understand a candidate’s overall philosophy and likely policy decisions.
The bill was introduced in February. Last week’s hearing was the first opportunity for public comment, and more hearings are expected as additional perspectives are presented.