Statement of President Karen A. Holbrook - 09/30/04

COLUMBUS, Ohio—President Holbrook today issued the following statement on a proposed amendment to the Ohio Constitution that restricts the definition of marriage and states, in part, that “this state and its political subdivisions shall not create or recognize a legal status for relationships of unmarried individuals that intends to approximate the design, qualities, significance or effect of marriage”:

“Ohio State has adopted health care benefits for sponsored dependents. They are consistent with current law and in line with those of many other employers in our region and with our benchmark university peers. We believe they are necessary to attract, retain and support the best faculty, staff and students. Ohio tax dollars do not pay for this benefit at Ohio State.

“Ohio State competes in a global marketplace for the best and brightest. These valued faculty, staff and students provide Ohio State with the rich, diverse, and productive environment that is required to make Ohio competitive and economically healthy.

“Our administration is firmly committed to offering sponsored dependent coverage as part of our benefits packages. However, if Issue One passes, the Ohio Attorney General has indicated that institutions like Ohio State may be prohibited from doing so. In fact, the language of the initiative lacks clarity, and its effects will almost certainly be litigated for an extended time.

“If it is determined that Issue One prevents Ohio State and others from offering these benefits, it will be harmful to our institution’s ability to remain competitive with other employers and institutions of higher learning. Such an outcome would have negative consequences for our community and state.”