Miami University’s Associated Student Government (ASG) moved a constitutional amendment about nonpartisanship forward to a student body vote during the first meeting of the semester on Feb. 18. Senators also listened to a presentation on Senate Bill 1 (S.B. 1), which if passed, will restrict faculty and staff in higher education, among other things.
Speaker Pro Tempore Nick Barry introduced the amendment, which adds the following language to the ASG constitution: “To act in a non-partisan manner at all times.”
He said it codifies nonpartisanship and makes it harder for future senators to become partisan.
“When partisanship is brought up,” Barry said, “it creates division.”
Barry said anything divided sharply between partisan sides will be considered a partisan issue. Alternative Senator Kirsten Osteboe voiced her support for the amendment.
“I think remaining nonpartisan is an integral part of ASG and remaining functional and staying out of controversy,” Osteboe said. “That line has become blurry a few times and caused issues.”
During debate on the amendment, Senator James Li said he believes the change is too deep because of its potential future impact on the Senate.
“The constitution has to be sustainable,” Li said.
Li also asked if Ohio S.B. 1 would be considered partisan. Senate Speaker Shelby Alford said the steering committee will vote on it.
Miami students can vote on the amendment through the Hub, Barry said. If 50% of students vote “yes,” the amendment will be added to the ASG constitution.
Randi Thomas, vice president of Miami’s Governmental Relations Network, spoke with senators about Ohio S.B. 1. He outlined the bill and highlighted specific sections that could impact Miami, like those about diversity, equity and inclusion, faculty strikes and a new required class in American civic liberties.
“I’m not here to defend either side,” Thomas said. “ I’m here to illuminate the most pressing things.”
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The bill passed the Ohio Senate on Feb. 12. and is expected to be out of the Ohio House by mid-March. Then, if Governor Mike Dewine signs it, the law will go into effect 90 days after the Ohio secretary of state enrolls it.
Senator Charlie Merrill was appointed to the steering committee after another senator resigned.
Student Body President and Vice President packets are open. Alford said these positions require 150 signatures each. Students outside of ASG can apply.
Additionally, Senators raised concerns about fire drill scheduling, the timeline for student funding, the lack of food options in dining halls on weekends and how the cost for charging electric vehicles is by hour and not by kilowatt hour. The concerns were committed and are waiting for respective responses back.
ASG’s next meeting is at 6 p.m. on Feb. 25 in the Joslin Senate Chamber.
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