As an independent bookstore owner in Ohio, and someone who values the freedom to learn, I am deeply concerned about House Bill 556. This proposed law threatens librarians, booksellers, and educators alike for providing children with books viewed as "obscene" by certain members of the Ohio State Legislature with extremist ideologies. 

House Bill 556 is dangerously subjective; it does not clearly define what is deemed "obscene," allowing for the potential abuse of the statute to dictate which books children can and cannot read. The unfettered access to a broad range of books is the cornerstone of development, enhancing empathy, cognitive and emotional growth in our children. This bill stands to stifle this growth, infringing on the fundamental freedoms of Ohioans. If we trust our teachers and librarians to take such a large role in the nurturing of our children's minds, then we should trust their expertise in selecting books that cultivate a love of reading and desire to understand more about the world around them. Booksellers should be free to recommend and sell books for children that meet that child's immediate needs without the fear of a felony criminal charge. Reading is a fundamental human right. 

I am urging all Ohio residents to get involved in the fight against this bill. Contact your state representatives and tell them to vote no on House Bill 556. Contact Governor DeWine and implore him not to sign this bill if it crosses his desk. Remember, our collective voice can make a significant difference.

You can read the bill at the following link:

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/135/hb556

It's time to stand up for the freedom to read, the freedom to learn, and the freedom to think. Please, sign this petition. Stand up for our educators, librarians, and booksellers-stand up for our children.