1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

I strongly disapprove of the harmful comments made by Senator George Lang regarding students with disabilities. Suggesting that students with severe disabilities are costlier to educate than those from "loving" families with parents who "put education at a high level" is deeply offensive and inaccurate. All students deserve equal access to quality education regardless of their abilities or family situations. Senator Lang's comparison implies that students with disabilities come from less loving homes or are less worthy of educational resources, which is unacceptable. This perpetuates stigma and discrimination against these vulnerable students and their families. His remarks demonstrate a fundamental lack of understanding about the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities and the vital support services they require to thrive academically. As an elected official, Senator Lang has a responsibility to advocate for the educational needs of all students in Ohio, not make harmful generalizations that marginalize certain groups. I urge him to apologize for his insensitive comments and educate himself on disability rights and inclusive education practices. Our state's education system must provide equitable opportunities and resources to every student without bias or prejudice. Statements like these undermine that essential goal and cannot be tolerated from our leaders.