The Ohio Senate approved a bill — sponsored by Sens. Michael Rulli, R-Salem, and Kenny Yuko, D-Richmond Heights — to create an office and a commission on Eastern European affairs.

The office and commission would educate the public on issues of concern to Ohioans of Eastern European origin and advise the governor, the General Assembly and state agencies on these issues.

The approval Wednesday comes one week after Russia invaded Ukraine. The war has intensified greatly since then.

“I have been convinced of the need for the office and the commission by the many persuasive voices in our district,” Rulli said.

“Especially now, in this time of war and perilous uncertainty in Eastern Europe, solid information and clear dialogue are needed now more than ever,” the senator added.

Ohio is home to more than 1.1 million people of Eastern European heritage, according to the legislation.

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