Grove City Council challenges Ohio House Bill 96's impact on library funding and censorship

The Grove City Council convened on May 19, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding Ohio's proposed House Bill 96, which could significantly impact local library funding and operations. The meeting began with expressions of gratitude from library representatives for the community's ongoing support, particularly during challenging times.

The primary focus of the discussion was House Bill 96, which, if enacted, would alter the funding structure for public libraries from a percentage of the general revenue fund to a line item allocation. This change raises concerns about the stability of library funding, as line item allocations can be more easily cut during budget reviews. Currently, the Grove City Library is facing a financial shortfall exacerbated by the 2023 state budget, which has already led to reduced operating hours and staff layoffs.

Library officials highlighted that the proposed bill would maintain funding levels for 2026 and 2027 at the lowest amounts received in the past four years, despite rising operational costs due to inflation. They emphasized that the library's funding, which constitutes 62% of its budget, is at risk if the bill passes in its current form.

Additionally, House Bill 96 includes provisions that would impose restrictions on minors' access to materials related to gender identity and orientation. Compliance with these mandates would require significant financial investment, including hiring additional staff and reviewing existing materials, estimated to cost the library approximately $450,000 annually, along with a one-time infrastructure cost of $200,000.

The council members expressed their support for the library and discussed strategies to advocate against the bill. Mayor Sage proposed drafting a letter to state senators opposing the funding shift and the unfunded mandates outlined in the bill. The council unanimously agreed to this course of action, emphasizing the importance of maintaining robust library services for the community.

In conclusion, the Grove City Council's meeting underscored the urgent need to address the potential impacts of House Bill 96 on local library funding and operations. The council plans to take proactive steps to advocate for the library's financial stability and oppose any measures that threaten its ability to serve the community effectively.