House activity
The House passed House Bill 62, which funds the state transportation budget. The bill affects school districts by holding them harmless from the bill’s increase in the motor fuel tax rates.
Senate Judiciary Committee
The committee heard proponent testimony on Senate Bill (SB) 16, sponsored by Sen. Sandra R. Williams (D-Cleveland). The bill requires public high schools to instruct students in proper interactions with peace officers during traffic stops and other encounters.
Senate Government Oversight and Reform Committee
The committee heard proponent testimony on SB 10, sponsored by Sen. Steve Wilson (R-Maineville). The bill increases the penalty for theft in office when the value of property or services stolen is $150,000 or more.
The committee also conducted a third hearing on SB 1, sponsored by Sen. Rob McColley (R-Napoleon), which requires the Ohio Department of Education and other state agencies to reduce regulatory restrictions by 30% by 2022.
Senate Ways and Means Committee
The committee heard proponent testimony on SB 36, sponsored by Sen. Matt Huffman (R-Lima). The bill revises standards for county auditors when assessing federally subsidized residential rental property values.
State Legislative Conference
This year’s State Legislative Conference is March 19 at the Sheraton Columbus at Capitol Square. The conference provides school board members, superintendents, treasurers and others with a great venue to meet with their state legislators and discuss issues impacting public education.
During the morning session, attendees will hear briefings and discussions on the state budget and other legislation. Speakers include:
• Sen. Larry Obhof (R-Medina), Senate president;
• Rep. Larry Householder (R-Glenford), House speaker;
• Rep. Louis W. Blessing III (R-Colerain Township), chair, House Primary and Secondary Education Committee;
• Rep. John Patterson (D-Jefferson), co-chair, House Finance Subcommittee on Primary and Secondary Education.
The cost of the conference is $145. Click here to register or contact Laurie Miller at (614) 540-4000, (800) 589-OSBA or Lmiller@ohioschoolboards.org.