Ohio House passes bill to designate NASA Day of Remembrance; Local Rep. Teska Lone No Vote

Image from NASA

The Ohio House of Representatives has approved a bill to establish the fourth Thursday of January as NASA Day of Remembrance. The announcement was made by State Representative Bob Peterson (R-Sabina).

House Bill 293 is intended to create an annual occasion for Ohio residents to honor those who have died in the course of space exploration and scientific advancement, including the crews of Apollo 1, Challenger, and Columbia.

"As a young boy at the time of the Apollo 1 tragedy, I appreciate our space explorers and the risks they take," said Peterson. "I believe it is important to remember those who sacrificed for our future."

Rep. Michelle Teska (R-Clearcreek Township) was the lone no vote on this bi-partisan bill. Her office did not respond to repeated requests for comment. The bill passed 93-1.

Ohio has a notable history in aviation and is recognized as the birthplace of aviation. The state ranks fourth nationally in terms of astronauts produced, with 26 individuals from Ohio having become astronauts.

The bill will now proceed to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.