OH SCR4

Declares racism a public health crisis affecting Ohio and requests the Governor establish a working group to promote racial equity throughout the state.

Cites extensive data demonstrating racial health disparities in Ohio, including maternal mortality rates 2.5 times higher for Black women, one of the highest Black infant mortality rates nationally, and life expectancy nearly four years lower for Black Ohioans.

Documents systemic racism impacts on social determinants of health including housing, education, employment, and criminal justice, with 56% of incarcerated youth in Ohio being Black despite representing only 16% of the under-18 population.

Directs the working group to create a glossary of racism and health equity terms, promote community engagement with communities of color, provide workplace bias training, and support initiatives to dismantle systemic racism.

Commits the General Assembly to reviewing all state code, policies, and practices through a racial equity lens, including hiring, promotion, vendor selection, and grant management activities.