A Legislative Update, December 3, 2019
The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation in the last several weeks including bills to support Ohio’s small businesses and promote railroad safety.
My colleagues in the Ohio House and I work hard to improve the lives of the Ohioans we represent, and I appreciate the opportunity to update you on these and other issues before us in the legislature.
Enhancing the Homestead Exemption: House Bill 17 enhances the homestead exemption for surviving spouses of public service officers killed in the line of duty from $25,000 to $50,000. This legislation will provide some monetary relief to the spouses of our first responders who make the ultimate sacrifice while protecting and serving the public. I cosponsored House Bill 17 which passed out of the House unanimously.
Revising the Statute of Limitations: House Bill 251 reduces the statute of limitations for written and oral contracts to six years and four years, respectively. This will provide businesses with more certainly and will allow them to take more risks to invest and grow. I cosponsored this legislation to help make Ohio as business friendly as possible. House Bill 251 passed out of the House unanimously.
Small Business Crowdfunding Act: House Bill 312 is another pro-business piece of legislation. This bill will allow Ohioans to raise up to $5 million in intrastate equity crowdfunding that can be used to start or expand businesses. This bill, which passed unanimously, will provide Ohioans with an efficient way to fund businesses while lowering the costs and regulations imposed on small businesses in the state. I cosponsored House Bill 312.
Recognizing Corrections Personnel Under Workers’ Compensation: House Bill 81 requires the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation to pay for services used to determine whether a person employed by a detention facility sustained an injury or occupational disease after exposure to another person’s blood or bodily fluids under specified circumstances. This is a small change that will ensure that our corrections officers receive the medical care they deserve. I cosponsored this bill which passed unanimously.
Updating Railroad Safety: House Bill 226 requires drivers to watch, listen and stop for on-track equipment at railroad crossings. The legislation addresses maintenance of way, railroad contractors and other on-track equipment that are not included in the state statute. This clarification will ensure motorists are safe at rail crossings. House Bill 226 passed out of the House unanimously.
In everything I do, whether it is in Columbus or back in my home district of Stark County, I will continue to make your priorities my priorities. With that goal in mind, I welcome your feedback and opinions at any time. Please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (614) 752-2438, emailing Rep48@OhioHouse.gov, or by writing me at 77 South High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.