1. United States
2. Ohio
3. Letter

House Bill 42 raises serious concerns about violating the privacy rights of Ohio residents by requiring agencies to collect and report data on individuals' citizenship or immigration status. The proposal to mandate such data collection is a misguided approach that risks eroding civil liberties and fostering a climate of distrust between communities and government entities. The bill's provisions fail to recognize the fundamental difference between being detained and being convicted of a crime. Individuals can be detained for various reasons without being found guilty, and requiring agencies to collect and report data on detainees, regardless of their innocence or guilt, constitutes an unwarranted intrusion into personal privacy. Moreover, the proposed legislation could create a chilling effect, discouraging individuals from seeking essential services or reporting crimes out of fear of having their immigration status scrutinized. This undermines public safety and erodes trust in vital institutions meant to serve all residents impartially. Rather than pursuing divisive measures that compromise privacy and breed mistrust, lawmakers should prioritize policies that foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all Ohioans, regardless of their immigration status. Efforts should be directed towards addressing genuine public concerns through transparent and ethical means while upholding the fundamental rights and freedoms enshrined in our democratic principles.