House Bill 489-

Understanding House Bill 489

House Bill 489 (HB 489) is a proposed bill that, if approved, will repeal section 9.76 of the Ohio Revised Code.

Section 9.76 was passed in 2016 and requires anyone doing business with the state — whether a small business, nonprofit, or university — to sign a pledge promising not to boycott certain countries, including Israel. This law has been used to restrict student groups, universities, and local organizations from making their own democratic decisions about issues like divestment and boycott campaigns.

HB 489, introduced by Representatives Munira Abdullahi (Columbus) and Tristan Rader (Lakewood), seeks to repeal that 2016 law. The bill would return Ohio’s contracting process to its original standard — awarding contracts to the “lowest and best bidder” based on merit, not political beliefs.

Federal courts across the country have raised constitutional concerns with similar anti-boycott laws, with many rulings finding that political boycotts are a form of protected First Amendment activity.

By repealing this requirement, HB 489 ensures Ohioans are not forced to give up their rights in order to do business with their own government.