Tell your state representative to support peaceful protest in Ohio!

Make no mistake - SB 33 is an attempt by corporate lobbyists to limit the rights of Ohioans. If passed, it would treat acts of civil disobedience at sites deemed "critical infrastructure" on the same level as involuntary manslaughter and unlawful sexual conduct with a minor. This bill would also impose fines on organizations such as churches, grassroots groups, and non-profits even if they are unaware of that person's plans or actions.

The definition of “critical infrastructure” is sweeping, and includes a vast array of oil, gas, electric, water, telecommunications, railroad facilities, and other locations. Under the bill, an individual peacefully protesting in the wrong place could be punished with half a year in jail. There are already adequate laws on the books in Ohio for acts of trespass, civil disobedience, and property damage. The intent of this bill is to stifle free speech, discourage democratic participation, and curtail freedom of association. Ohio has a long history of people coming together to exercise their rights and make their voices heard. This bill comes at a time when Ohioans are engaging in environmental advocacy across the state, as pipelines, ethane crackers, and frack pads are scarring our state and making us sick. Speak up for your rights.

Demand that your state senator says NO to SB 33!

480

signatures of 1000 goal

Continue

Title

First Name

Last Name

Street Address

City

State

Zip

Phone

Your Message

Subject

Support democracy: vote no on SB33

Add a Personal Message

Personal messages make a big impact on decision makers. Please add a note about why this issue matters to you!

1000 characters remaining

Message

Senate Bill 33 is an attack on free speech and freedom of assembly that would drastically increase “trespass” penalties, and impose long prison sentences and significant financial liability on those who participate in or who are deemed “guilty by association” in peaceful protest. Bills such as these are designed to discourage political participation and curtail freedom of association. Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful assembly, and existing laws are already in place to prosecute unlawful actions. The sheer breadth of this bill’s “critical infrastructure” definition creates confusion stemming from its blanket list of broad categories of places, objects, or general areas, which trespassers must avoid. Controversial infrastructure projects are far from the only public policy issues that generate mass mobilization, public protest, and deeply felt political expression. However, individuals and organizations who engage in similar activities on other political issues would not be subject to the same standard of financial and criminal liability. Individuals and organizations participating in peaceful assembly are the sign of a healthy democracy; it is undemocratic for elected officials to pass laws that attempt to silence their own constituents. Ohio has a long and proud history of people coming together to exercise their rights and make their voices heard. I urge you to oppose SB 33 and show that Ohio leaders value a healthy democracy.

By taking this action to protect the planet, you are affirming you want to receive regular Sierra Club communications and may vote on policy designated by the Sierra Club Board.