H.C.R. No. 17 Summary

• Concurrent resolution denouncing all forms of stigmatization, racism, and discrimination resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Establishes that COVID-19 stigma is particularly high due to the disease being new, uncertainty surrounding it, and the tendency to project fear onto minority groups, particularly people of Asian descent.

• Identifies stigma consequences including social avoidance, denial of healthcare/education/housing/employment, and physical violence, which can drive people to hide illness and discourage health-seeking behaviors.

• Declares the 134th General Assembly has a responsibility to speak out against COVID-19-related stigma, particularly given that healthcare organizations affirm public denouncements by people in positions of power are the most effective way to combat stigma.

• Directs the House Clerk to transmit authenticated copies of the resolution to Ohio news media outlets.