(COLUMBUS, OH – 1/4/23) – The Ohio Chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR-Ohio) celebrated a decision by Governor DeWine to sign House Bill 353, otherwise known as the “Testing Your Faith Act” into law.
SEE: CAIR-Ohio Testifies in Support of Religious Accommodation Bill for College Students
The law now requires the state’s public colleges and universities to allow three days of excused absences each year for religious observances and alternative accommodations for exams and classwork during those absences.
Higher education institutions providing students with these religious accommodations will create a more inclusive environment for Muslim students who can practice their faith freely and achieve academic success. Most importantly, this law sets uniform standards across classes and campuses without relying on the discretion of each professor or school.
The bipartisan bill was co-sponsored by Rep. Gary Click and Rep. Miranda and passed favorably in both the Ohio House and Senate, without any opponent testimonies. It has received widespread support from various religious and civil liberties organizations, including those from the Jewish and Sikh communities.
SEE: CAIR-Ohio Presents Proponent Testimony on Religious Accommodations Bill for College Students
“Religious accommodations are an essential aspect of promoting inclusivity and support for Muslim college students. These accommodations allow Muslim students to fully participate in the academic and social aspects of campus life without compromising their beliefs and practices,” said CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi.
“These provisions create a welcoming and supportive environment for Muslim students to thrive. By ensuring that Muslim students have access to these accommodations, colleges and universities can foster a more diverse and inclusive community where all students feel valued and supported.”
CAIR is America’s largest Muslim civil liberties and advocacy organization. CAIR-Ohio’s mission is to enhance understanding of Islam, protect civil rights, promote justice, and empower American Muslims. CAIR-Ohio has offices in Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati.
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CONTACT: CAIR-Ohio Executive Director Amina Barhumi, abarhumi@cair.com, 614-763-6557