House lawmakers today voted in a bipartisan fashion to favorably move House Bill 166 or the state‘s biennium budget, to the Ohio Senate for its consideration. This legislation is a balanced approach amounting to an all funds total of approximately $141,52 billion, and reflects a concerted effort to invest in Ohio and the promise of a better, more secure future, by investing in working people and our communities.

State Reps. John Rogers (D-Mentor-on-the-Lake) and Shane Wilkin (R-Piketon) announced the House passage of House Bill 85 today, which creates a methodology for Ohio counties to petition the State for additional funding in capital cases which exceed a threshold that might otherwise place the county in financial distress, if not fiscal ruin. 

Described by Rep. Rogers and Rep. Wilkin as one of Ohio’s largest homicide investigations, the costs associated with prosecuting the recent capital crimes in Pike County could exceed $5 million. Pike County, with a annual budget of less than $10 million, is nevertheless mandated to enforce Ohio law, pursue justice on behalf of the State, and hold those responsible to account.   

“Ohio is charged with a great responsibility – to seek justice, to protect the rights of its citizens, and protect our communities, all the while ensuring that those who commit horrendous acts of violence, including murder, are held accountable,” Rogers said.

State Rep. John Rogers (D-Mentor-on-the-Lake) today announced that the Lake County Sheriff's Office has received an Ohio Department Marine Patrol Assistances Grant provided by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft.

These funds are made available to law enforcement agencies through the State’s continuing effort to keep our waterways safe while enhancing recreational boating experiences.

Representative John M. Rogers (D-Mentor-on-the-Lake) expressed cautious optimism after the Governor’s delivery of his inaugural State of the State Address.

“All of us here at the Statehouse are familiar with so many of the issues that affect our communities and our families. And while Governor DeWine appeared sincere while outlining the steps he believes Ohio should take to get it back on track, this is the 7^th State of the State I have attended...