Get out the vote AGAINST Issue 1

The following was submitted to the Dayton Daily News by the Greater Dayton Area League President.

The League of Women Voters opposes House Joint Resolution 1 (HJR1) and Senate Joint Resolution 2 (SJR2).

Ballot initiatives have improved Ohio through war veteran pensions, school construction, housing and conservation, infrastructure improvements, and economic development. Requiring 60% vote to pass an amendment, rather than a simple majority, HJR1/SJR2 would unreasonably restrict the ability of citizens to directly participate in democracy. 

The legislature is also planning an August Election for voters to decide this issue only, despite just voting to limit August Special Elections, which unnecessarily place strain on elections officials and waste taxpayer dollars.  The August 2022 special election drew only an 8% turnout and cost $20 million. This is too important an issue to be decided by so few.

Who’s for this change? Special interest groups and at least one out-of-state megadonor, while former Governors from both parties and nearly 240 civic, labor, and faith groups have expressed opposition. We urge our Ohio legislators to vote no and maintain Ohio’s proud tradition of direct democracy.

Respectfully Submitted,
Mario, President
League of Women Voters Greater Dayton Area