OEA letter to members: update on the attempted takeover of the STRS board by Ohio legislators

From OEA

October 16, 2025

Dear KATHERINE, 

We want to inform you of a significant legal development in the ongoing case involving the State Teachers Retirement System Board (STRS). 

On September 16, 2025, members of the Ohio Education Association, the Ohio Federation of Teachers, and the Ohio Conference of the American Association of University Professors filed the lawsuit in the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas, challenging legislation passed in the 11th hour of the state budget process that would add more politically-appointed members to the board and then gradually eliminate four elected positions. The State filed an appeal of the temporary restraining order, to try to ram through the changes to the STRS Board now, while the court process continues to unfold and on September 30, 2025, the State’s appeal was denied. Judge Aveni of the Franklin County Common Pleas court entered an order formally extending the TRO until Wednesday, October 15, 2025. 

And today, Wednesday, October 15, 2025, a judge granted a preliminary injunction in the case brought against the STRS. This decision temporarily halts specific actions by the Board while the legal process continues. The injunction represents an important step in holding the STRS accountable and ensuring that transparency, responsible governance, and the protection of your retirement benefits remain a top priority. 

The Ohio Education Association has long advocated for reforms at STRS that prioritize the interests of active and retired educators. We view this ruling as a positive development in that fight. It underscores the seriousness of the issues raised in the case and reflects the court’s recognition that immediate relief was necessary to prevent potential harm while the case proceeds. 

We will continue to monitor this situation closely and keep you updated as more information becomes available. In the meantime, we remain committed to advocating for retirement security, transparency, and accountability on your behalf. 

Thank you for your continued support and for all you do for Ohio’s students and communities. 

Please click here to send a message to your members of the Ohio General Assembly today! 

In solidarity, 

Jeff Wensing, OEA President