Ohio's Senate Bill 1 could threaten union rights and academic freedom

Sara Kilpatrick, Executive Director of the Ohio Conference of the American Association of University Professors (AAUP), joined America's Workforce Union Podcast to discuss the implications of Ohio Senate Bill 1 on academic freedom, its anti-union provisions and the broader political motivations behind the proposed legislation.

Ohio Senate Bill 1 poses a significant threat to academic freedom by targeting university faculty's rights. Kilpatrick explained that the bill seeks to prohibit faculty strikes and limit collective bargaining on essential employment terms. She added that the move is seen as an attempt to undermine tenure and make faculty at-will employees, thereby stifling their ability to teach and research without political interference. The bill's provisions could effectively eliminate tenure, allowing administrators to conduct post-tenure reviews and dismiss faculty at will.

Kilpatrick stated the bill's anti-union stance is evident in its efforts to restrict collective bargaining rights. Kilpatrick continued, stating that the legislation attempts to silence faculty voices and diminish their power on campuses. By banning faculty strikes and limiting bargaining topics, the bill aligns with broader union-busting tactics seen in other states. Kilpatrick emphasized the importance of collective action, noting that if faculty rights are eroded, other public sector workers could face similar threats.

Kilpatrick also addressed the political motivations driving Senate Bill 1, linking it to a national trend of right-wing attacks on public education. She noted that the bill mirrors similar legislation in states like Florida and Texas, driven by right-wing think tanks. The bill's supporters claim it addresses liberal bias in education, but Kilpatrick argued that it lacks evidence and is more about advancing a political agenda. The AAUP and its allies are mobilizing to oppose the bill, recognizing it as a critical line in the sand for protecting academic and union rights.

Listen to the full episode to understand the stakes and join the fight against Senate Bill 1.