|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio lawmakers have approved legislation mandating hospitals to disclose a list of standard charges for their services, both with and without insurance. The new law requires hospitals to publish costs for at least 300 shoppable services, which include surgeries and other non-urgent care that can be scheduled in advance. Hospitals opting out of providing a price list can instead offer an online price estimator, but they are prohibited from selling patients' personal data. Proponents, including Rep. Ron Ferguson, argue that this transparency will enhance competition, improve quality, and lower prices for healthcare in Ohio. The measure now awaits Governor Mike DeWine's signature, with advocates claiming it could make Ohio the first state to require upfront pricing in healthcare. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| In a recent letter to the editor, Melinda Zemper from Save Ohio Parks expressed concerns over fracking in Ohio's state parks and public lands. She argues that the practice poses significant health risks, including increased rates of childhood cancers and respiratory issues, while also contaminating freshwater resources. Zemper emphasizes that the environmental impact of oil and gas production contributes to climate change, as evidenced by extreme weather conditions in Ohio. She urges Governor Mike DeWine and lawmakers to prioritize green energy solutions that would protect public lands and ensure a healthier future for children. The letter concludes with a call for policies that promote sustainable energy over harmful practices like fracking. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio's General Assembly has passed House Bill 452, a violence prevention bill aimed at enhancing safety for hospital staff, including doctors and nurses. Sponsored by State Rep. Andrea White and State Rep. Rachel Baker, the bill mandates hospitals to track incidents of violence and implement security plans to manage aggressive behaviors. The legislation received unanimous approval from the Ohio Senate Veterans and Public Safety Committee after minor amendments were made. Advocates, including Ron Smith, whose daughter Tristin, a Dayton nurse, tragically died by suicide, emphasize the need for improved working conditions in healthcare. The bill is seen as a significant step towards addressing the physical and emotional trauma faced by healthcare professionals due to workplace violence. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio Governor Mike DeWine is set to sign Senate Bill 109 into law on December 20 at 10 a.m. This legislation aims to enhance the authority of the State Medical Board of Ohio in holding sexually abusive medical professionals accountable. The bill will increase transparency for victims and patients, ensuring better reporting mechanisms. Additionally, it will allow for temporary license suspensions during investigations into allegations of abuse. The new measures are expected to significantly improve the safety and trust in medical practices across the state. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| State Senator Al Cutrona achieved a rare legislative milestone by voting for his own bill in both the House and Senate. The bill, which he introduced on February 7, establishes a process for trucking companies to contest towing and storage charges following accidents. Cutrona voted for the bill in the House on June 12 and again in the Senate after his recent appointment, marking a unique occurrence in the state Legislature. He expressed pride in navigating the bill through both chambers and is eager for it to be signed by the governor. The legislation received unanimous support and aims to provide a fair and expedited solution for disputes between commercial vehicle owners and towing services. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Outgoing U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown has expressed frustration over the stalled Railway Safety Act, which was inspired by the Norfolk Southern derailment in East Palestine in February 2023. The proposed legislation aimed to enhance rail safety regulations, including measures such as reducing train lengths and ensuring a minimum two-person crew on locomotives. Despite bipartisan support, the act has not progressed, with only the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act being signed into law by President Biden. Both the Senate and House have shown a lack of urgency in addressing rail safety, with similar proposals remaining inactive. Lawmakers and advocates are urging the next Congress to prioritize rail safety reforms to prevent future disasters. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed 20 bills into law following a legislative session on Wednesday. Notably, two significant bills, Braden's Law and the Parents' Bill of Rights, did not pass and will need to be reintroduced in the new year. Among the signed legislation are Senate Bill 6, which addresses environmental governance policies, and Senate Bill 100, which prohibits unauthorized tracking devices. Other bills include House Bill 5, modernizing adoption laws, and House Bill 236, which ensures patient access to advocates during public health emergencies. The legislative session concluded with a focus on various social, legal, and health-related issues impacting Ohio residents. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Toledo Blade |
| / Potential Paywall |
|
|
|
| COLUMBUS — Governor Mike DeWine has signed a bill designating a section of State Route 199 in Wood County as the U.S. Army Pvt. 1st Class Jerry Bockbrader Memorial Highway. This tribute honors Jerry Bockbrader, a Perrysburg resident who lost his life on May 20, 1968, in Vietnam at the age of 20. He was killed by an enemy grenade while investigating a suspicious individual. Family members attended the bill-signing ceremony alongside the governor, marking the occasion. The legislation also includes several other memorial designations across northwest Ohio, recognizing various fallen military personnel. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Rep. Brad Wenstrup's VSO Equal Tax Treatment (VETT) Act has been signed into law by President Joe Biden, marking a significant bipartisan achievement. The law aims to reform tax code provisions that previously restricted Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) from accepting tax-deductible donations unless a majority of their members were wartime veterans. This change will allow all Congressionally-chartered VSOs to receive such donations, regardless of their membership composition. Rep. Wenstrup emphasized the importance of VSOs in providing essential support and community for veterans who have served the nation. The new legislation is expected to bolster these organizations and enhance their ability to serve veterans effectively. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Zanesville Times Recorder |
|
|
|
| A new law in Ohio, signed by Governor Mike DeWine, makes it illegal to electronically track individuals without their consent. Senate Bill 100 classifies unauthorized use of tracking devices as a first degree misdemeanor, escalating to a fourth degree felony in specific circumstances, such as prior stalking convictions. The legislation, which will take effect in March, includes an exception for parents or legal guardians tracking their children under 18. Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio emphasized the importance of protecting Ohioans' privacy rights in light of advancing technology. The bill was also amended to address additional issues, including penalties for selling tobacco to minors and authorizing saliva tests for DUI offenses. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Crains Cleveland Business |
| / Paywall |
|
|
|
| Two Ohio pension funds have been appointed lead plaintiffs in a $76 million class-action lawsuit against ZoomInfo, accused of making misleading statements about its business health. The lawsuit, filed by seven entities, claims that ZoomInfo's false disclosures led to significant stock value declines, costing the Ohio Public Employees Retirement System and the State Teachers Retirement System a combined $75.9 million. Judge Tiffany M. Cartwright of the U.S. District Court of Western Washington highlighted that ZoomInfo misrepresented its financial status during the pandemic, claiming record revenues while hiding declining customer retention. Following a series of corrective disclosures in late 2022, the company's stock plummeted by 90%, dropping from $79 to $8 per share. Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost emphasized the need for accountability, stating that ZoomInfo's leadership misled investors, resulting in serious financial losses for Ohio's pension systems. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| A new bill aimed at enhancing medical price transparency is awaiting Governor Mike DeWine's signature in Ohio. If enacted, Ohio would become the first state in the U.S. to mandate upfront pricing for hundreds of medical procedures, going beyond existing federal regulations. The legislation requires hospitals to provide this pricing without any registration or user account requirements, with compliance monitored by the Ohio Department of Health. Advocates argue that such transparency could significantly benefit patients, as illustrated by a case where a woman could have saved thousands on surgery costs with prior knowledge of pricing. The bill has garnered support from organizations like PatientRightsAdvocate.org, which highlights the current lack of compliance among many hospitals in the state. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Cleveland Plain Dealer |
| / Potential Paywall |
|
|
|
| A proposed bill in Ohio aimed at granting patients the right to access off-label drugs like ivermectin for COVID-19 treatment has officially failed. Supporters of the bill received symbolic concessions, including protections for doctors' "medical free speech" and a declaration that the World Health Organization has no jurisdiction in the state. The legislation, which faced significant opposition from medical professionals, would have mandated hospitals to provide access to prescribed off-label drugs, despite widespread consensus that ivermectin is ineffective against COVID-19. A compromise version of the bill was passed by the Senate but was ultimately rejected by the House, leading to the collapse of the entire legislative package. The final omnibus legislation sent to the governor included provisions to protect medical opinions that diverge from official health guidelines and to limit the influence of the WHO in Ohio's health policies. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| In a late-night session, the Ohio General Assembly approved a sales tax break for the Cincinnati Bengals to facilitate over $120 million in renovations to Paycor Stadium. This decision has sparked controversy, revealing tensions between the Bengals and Hamilton County as they negotiate a new lease for the county-owned facility. Hamilton County officials expressed shock at the legislation, claiming they were not consulted and had previously indicated a willingness to grant the exemption contingent on compliance with state laws regarding wages and bidding. The Bengals, who confirmed their request for the tax break, are reportedly frustrated by the county's refusal, which they believe is a tactic to gain leverage in lease negotiations. The amendment was added to a larger bill, raising concerns among county leaders about the loss of local authority over taxpayer-owned property. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio voters recently rejected a ballot initiative aimed at addressing gerrymandering, prompting discussions about the state's legislative map drawing process. State Senator Bill Blessing has suggested increasing the number of seats in the Ohio House of Representatives as a potential solution to the perceived unfairness of current maps. Critics argue that gerrymandering allows political parties to manipulate district boundaries to maintain control, effectively letting lawmakers choose their voters. Despite the proposal, University of Cincinnati political science professor David Niven cautioned that simply adding more seats may not resolve the underlying issues of gerrymandering. Blessing is also advocating for changes to voter initiatives, proposing to reduce the number of signatures needed for voter-sponsored legislation to foster alternative routes to constitutional amendments. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Cleveland Plain Dealer |
| / Potential Paywall |
|
|
|
| Ohio lawmakers have approved legislation granting renewable energy credits to a coal-burning coke plant operated by SunCoke Energy in Scioto County. The decision was made under the premise that the plant is selling its steam to a nearby chemical manufacturing facility, thereby reducing reliance on natural gas. This provision is included in a larger 441-page bill that passed in the early hours of Thursday morning. Supporters argue that the credits are justified due to the plant's contribution to energy efficiency. Critics, however, may question the environmental implications of supporting a coal-burning facility with renewable energy incentives. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| On the final day of the Ohio legislative session, lawmakers passed several significant bills, including measures on medical price transparency and feral hog management. One key bill, House Bill 173, mandates medical facilities to disclose actual prices for services, enhancing transparency for patients. This move coincides with Ohio State University’s Wexner Medical Center's new pricing agreement with Sidecar Health, which aims to inform patients of costs upfront. Additionally, a bill allowing landowners to kill feral hogs without a license was approved, with a requirement to notify the Ohio Department of Natural Resources within 24 hours. Other notable legislation includes making sexual extortion a felony and provisions for drone operation and maintaining driving privileges for certain non-driving offenses. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Cleveland MSNBC WEWS-TV Cable |
|
|
|
| Ohio lawmakers have passed House Bill 531, which will classify sextortion as a felony in the state, in honor of Braden Markus, a 15-year-old who died by suicide following a sextortion scam. The bill was inspired by Braden's tragic experience, where he was coerced into sharing images by a scammer posing as a teenage girl on Instagram. After being threatened with the release of a compromising video unless he paid $1,800, Braden took his own life shortly after the conversation began. The legislation also includes a provision requiring companies to grant parents of deceased minors digital access within 30 days of their child's death, addressing the delays faced by Braden's family. While the core of the bill has been celebrated, there is disappointment over the removal of compensation provisions for victims' families, which was opposed by Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio Hi-Point is preparing for more flexible teacher licensing following the recent signing of House Bill 432 by Governor Mike DeWine. This new law is expected to broaden the pool of potential instructors for career technical schools, allowing for various pathways to earn teaching licenses. Assistant Superintendent Brad Richardson indicated that the district is considering three options for teacher licensing, with a preference for one that requires fewer credit hours and professional development. Additionally, Ohio Hi-Point plans to collaborate with the University of Toledo to facilitate the necessary classes for prospective teachers. The district is also focusing on operational improvements and student recognition as it approaches the Christmas break. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio Representative Sara Carruthers expressed her mixed feelings about leaving her position after three terms, emphasizing her enjoyment of legislative work but frustration with the current political climate. During her farewell address, she urged her colleagues to collaborate more effectively, criticizing the infighting among Republicans and the divisive nature of politics today. Carruthers, who lost her primary bid to Diane Mullins, reflected on her journey in the Statehouse, which included navigating challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and personal losses. She highlighted her commitment to positive change, advocating for legislation like Lauren's Law and securing funding for local projects in Butler County. Carruthers concluded by lamenting the increasing ugliness in politics and expressing her hope that future lawmakers prioritize unity over partisanship. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Cleveland Plain Dealer |
| / Potential Paywall |
|
|
|
| Legislation aimed at curbing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and addressing perceived liberal bias on college campuses has failed to pass in Ohio. Senate Bill 83, which sought to ban DEI and "ideological litmus tests," was a contentious topic during the recent legislative session. Although the bill successfully passed the Senate and a House committee, it did not reach the House floor for a vote. The failure to advance the bill marks a significant setback for proponents who argued it was necessary for academic freedom. The legislative session concluded early Thursday morning without the bill's passage. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| An Ohio House Bill aimed at regulating drone usage is now awaiting Governor Mike DeWine's approval. House Bill 77 will criminalize the operation of drones that knowingly endanger individuals or property, with penalties including a $500 fine or up to six months in jail. The legislation also prohibits drone operations that disrupt law enforcement and emergency services, while granting local governments the authority to regulate drone flights over public property. This bill was prompted by recent incidents involving mysterious drones near Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, which temporarily closed its airspace due to the sightings. The situation has raised concerns about potential connections to similar drone sightings across the United States, prompting investigations by federal agencies such as the FBI and Homeland Security. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio lawmakers have passed a new bill aimed at increasing price transparency in hospitals across the state. This legislation mandates that hospitals publish a public list of standard charges for at least 300 shoppable services, addressing concerns that existing federal laws on price disclosure are not being enforced. The bill was advanced to the governor's desk by attaching it to an unrelated measure, House Bill 173, after previously passing the Ohio Senate in June. Hospitals will have the option to provide estimates rather than detailed cost breakdowns to comply with the new requirements. The bill is now awaiting the governor's signature to become law. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Spectrum News One Columbus |
|
|
|
| Ohio has reported a decrease in initial unemployment claims while continued claims have increased, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. For the week of December 8 to December 14, the state recorded a total of 63,073 claims, with 8,859 being initial claims, a drop of 1,930 from the previous week. Among these initial claims, 1,041 were flagged for identity verification to prevent fraud. In contrast, continued claims rose to 54,484, marking an increase of 3,175 from the prior week. As of October, Ohio's unemployment rate stood at 4.3%, slightly higher than the national rate of 4.1%. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Ohio House has voted to approve Sub. H.B. 238, legislation aimed at reforming the CPA workforce, which is now awaiting Governor Mike DeWine's signature. If enacted, the law will address the declining number of CPAs due to retirements and a lack of new licensees, while also enhancing interstate mobility for current licensees. Key provisions include removing barriers for out-of-state CPAs to work in Ohio without excessive requirements, thus ensuring businesses have access to qualified talent. Additionally, the legislation proposes modernizing educational pathways to attract a more diverse pool of candidates by allowing an alternative licensure route that emphasizes experience over traditional educational requirements. If signed, the automatic mobility provisions will take effect 90 days post-signature, while the educational changes will be implemented starting January 1, 2026. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| A bill to create a Dolly Parton-themed license plate in Ohio has passed the House and is now awaiting Governor Mike DeWine's approval. Senate Bill 290, confirmed by Ohio Senate Democratic Leader Nickie J. Antonio, allows drivers to purchase a plate featuring Parton and her Imagination Library logo for $25. The funds raised from the sale of these plates will support Parton's Imagination Library of Ohio. The bill previously passed the Ohio Senate before moving to the House for consideration. Antonio expressed satisfaction with the unanimous support for the bill, which now awaits DeWine's decision. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| The Ohio Senate has passed House Bill 162, known as the "Agriculture Appreciation Act," which formally recognizes several federal agriculture days in state law. State Senator Tim Schaffer, a proponent of the bill, emphasized the importance of agriculture to Ohio's history and economy, stating that farmers deserve acknowledgment for their contributions. The legislation includes the designation of "Ohio Soil Health Week" in November, honoring soil advocate David Brandt, to raise awareness about soil health's significance in agriculture. Additionally, an amendment allows counties to hire multiple deputy apiarists to enhance local enforcement of agricultural laws. The bill will now return to the House for a concurrence vote. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| U.S. Senator Sherrod Brown's 'Social Security Fairness Act' is advancing, aiming to restore full Social Security benefits for nearly 3 million public sector workers and their families. Previous laws had drastically reduced these benefits by 40% or more, with some cases resulting in complete elimination. During a recent speech, Sen. Brown highlighted the impact on 250,000 individuals in Ohio, including law enforcement, teachers, and other public servants, emphasizing their contributions to society. The proposed legislation seeks to remove these unfair restrictions, ensuring that these workers receive the benefits they deserve. Having already passed in the U.S. House of Representatives in November, the bill is now set for a vote in the Senate. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Columbus Business First |
| / Paywall |
|
|
|
| The Ohio Housing Finance Agency has appointed former State Senator Bill Beagle as its new executive director, effective January 6. Beagle, who previously served as the senior director of policy and program administration for the Ohio Treasurer of State, brings extensive legislative and financial experience to the role. He was a state senator from 2011 to 2018 and is also the owner of Beagle Investment Group, a multifamily investment and management firm. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine expressed confidence in Beagle's ability to address the state's housing challenges and promote safe and affordable housing for all Ohioans. Beagle emphasized the importance of housing solutions in Ohio, indicating his eagerness to make a positive impact through the agency. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Ohio lawmakers have wrapped up their legislative session without making any progress on property tax reform, leaving several proposed bills stalled in committee. Senator Hearcel Craig expressed disappointment over the failure of his Senate Bill 271, which aimed to provide tax relief for residents facing high property taxes. Another proposal, House Bill 263, which sought to freeze property taxes for seniors, also did not advance. Senate President Matt Huffman acknowledged the complexity and political volatility surrounding the issue, suggesting that some school districts are overfunded and that excess funds should be returned to taxpayers. Both parties recognized the need for reform, with Craig remaining hopeful for future efforts to support residents across the state. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
