Current and Prospective Obies -- a law to be aware of

[Momof242729]

Just wanted to let people know about an OH law that, if it goes into effect, would have a massive impact on Oberlin Students.

The bill, SB104, was passed by the legislature last week and is now with the governor to veto or sign. It would completely prohibit all-gender bathrooms in every college in Ohio, regardless of the wishes of the student body (as well as all-gender room assignments). I’m almost certain the vast majority of bathrooms/housing at Oberlin are all-gender, and the school would thus be forced into a complete overhaul of its current policies if this law goes into effect.

My kid chose to go to school in Ohio, despite the political climate, because both they and I reasoned that any laws passed regarding higher education would affect public, not private, schools, but it now seems that the Ohio government also wants to dictate how private schools are run. Just something to be aware of.

[momofboiler1]

Hopefully the university and other entities will just rename the bathrooms to “family bathrooms.” Those are still permitted as are single use bathrooms.

[Mwfan1921]

Exactly. The current bill specifically allows family bathrooms. Page 30 of the document, my bolding:

(3) No institution of higher education shall construct, establish, or maintain a multioccupancy facility that is designated as nongendered, multigendered, or open to all genders.
Nothing in division (B)(3) of this section shall be construed to prohibit an institution of higher education from constructing, establishing, or maintaining a family facility.

https://search-prod.lis.state.oh.us/api/v2/general_assembly_135/legislation/sb104/06_EN/pdf/

[Momof242729]

Just an update: the “Family bathroom” portion of the bill only applies to single-stall restrooms. Oberlin announced this week that it will be complying with the law and changing the multi-stall bathrooms in the dorms and other campus buildings to single-gender. I gather that the student body is pretty upset about it.

[Mwfan1921]

It will be interesting to see whether there is any type of student pushback or protests and/or if we see a relatively high proportion of LGBTQ+ students transfer. Despite Oberlin’s reputation, students have not been ‘protesty’ in the last 5+ years or so. I’ve also heard nothing about how this law would be enforced.

Here’s the email from Dean Goff:

Dear Students and Colleagues,

On November 27, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed into law Senate Bill 104, which prohibits transgender students from using multiple-occupancy restrooms and locker rooms that align with their gender identities. This legislation will take effect on February 25, 2025.

We recognize that this new law profoundly impacts many members of our community, and we want to assure you that Oberlin remains steadfast in our commitment to your safety, well-being, and belonging. While we will comply with the legal requirements, this does not diminish our support for every member of our diverse community. Oberlin’s values of equity and inclusion are fundamental to who we are and will continue to be guiding principles as we navigate these challenging times.

Earlier this year, we established the LGBTQ+ Legislative Task Force, composed of representatives from across campus, to monitor and respond to legislation affecting LGBTQ+ rights. The task force is currently reviewing Senate Bill 104 and its implications. Under the law, all multiple-occupancy restrooms and locker rooms must be designated for the exclusive use of one gender. However, single-occupancy restrooms are not affected by this law, and we are fortunate to have more than 40 single-occupancy restrooms on campus. You can locate these facilities using our all-gender restroom campus map.

In the coming weeks, we will evaluate the necessary modifications to restroom and locker room signage and ensure transparent communication about any changes. If you have questions or feedback, please contact the Center for Intercultural Engagement (CIE) by emailing cie@oberlin.edu. The CIE will continue to serve as a vital resource and information hub for all students.

Students seeking support can access resources through the Campus Support Resources section on Oberlin.edu. Additionally, Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) offers walk-in hours Monday through Friday from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. We encourage anyone feeling the weight of this moment to reach out for support—you are not alone.

We know this is a deeply unsettling time for many. Please know that Oberlin hears you, sees you, and values you. As we close out the semester, I want to reaffirm our collective commitment to creating a community where everyone belongs.

In this season, I hope our resilience and compassion will strengthen our resolve as we navigate these challenges together. My heart and door remain open to each of you, and I look forward to welcoming you back on campus next semester.

With care and solidarity,

Karen Goff

Vice President and Dean of Students