The Ohio Assembly can have bills in process across all committees in both the House of Representatives and Senate. Here is a list of the bills the LPO political team are tracking.
If you are aware of a bill in committee that you would like to see added, reach out.
Items with icons have been reviewed on whether they align with the Libertarian Party of Ohio Platform and/or National Libertarian Platform.
✅ Aligns and passed by House/Senate
✔️ Aligns, still in committee
❌ Does not Align
Check on Recent Bill Activity.
- ❌ SB80 Allow a county to implement a motor fuel quality testing program
SB80 allows counties in Ohio to establish their own motor fuel quality testing programs, enabling local fuel inspectors to test the quality of motor fuels sold at retail outlets. The bill outlines the definitions of fuels, the testing procedures, and the authority of county auditors to implement these programs. It mandates adherence to established industry standards and requires data collection for public access. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill promotes local governance and ensures fuel quality, aligning with principles of consumer protection and environmental health. It gives counties the autonomy to manage their fuel standards, which may resonate with local party platforms that support localized control and environmental responsibility.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Possible inconsistency in fuel quality standards across counties.
- Increased administrative burden on local auditors and potential resource strain.
- Potential for conflict in testing and enforcement procedures.
- Variation in public awareness and compliance among retail dealers.
- ✔️ SB8 Prohibit paid public employee leave for certain union activities
SB8 prohibits public employers in Ohio from providing paid leave or compensation to public employees for engaging in political or lobbying activities on behalf of employee organizations. However, it allows the use of personal leave for such activities. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill aligns more with libertarian principles regarding the restriction of government involvement in union activities, while it is less favorable for labor groups that advocate for workers' rights.
- Risks and Concerns:
- May reduce public employee participation in political advocacy and lobbying.
- Could weaken the bargaining power of unions by limiting resources available for such activities.
- Potential backlash from labor organizations may lead to conflicts between public employers and unions.
- ❌ SB79 Regulate the use of pricing algorithms
SB79 aims to regulate the use of pricing algorithms by requiring disclosures from businesses that use such algorithms to set prices or terms, prohibits the use of nonpublic competitor data in developing these algorithms, and establishes legal presumption for antitrust violations in related fields. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The regulation of pricing algorithms aligns with principles of transparency and fairness in commerce, resonating with LP ideals, but may also raise concerns among LPO members who favor limited regulation on business practices.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Could impose additional compliance costs on businesses, particularly small businesses.
- Potential for increased legal disputes related to antitrust violations.
- May restrict the innovation in pricing strategies by restricting data usage.
- ❌ SB78 Establish and operate the Ohio Health Care Plan
The bill establishes the Ohio Health Care Plan, which mandates universal health care coverage for all Ohio residents. It creates the Ohio health care agency and board to administer the plan, which includes comprehensive benefits and provisions for cost control, enrollment, and provider payments. The plan will be funded through various taxes and grants, and it prohibits direct billing of enrollees for covered services. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill significantly expands government control over health care, mandating universal coverage and establishing a single-payer system, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market solutions. It imposes taxes to fund the program, which contradicts the Libertarian Party's stance against taxation and government spending.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over health care
- Higher taxes on individuals and businesses
- Potential for reduced quality of care due to bureaucratic management
- ❌ SB77 Require a system to anonymously report wage discrimination
The bill requires the Ohio Civil Rights Commission to establish a system for individuals to anonymously report wage discrimination by employers, allowing complaints to be submitted via a toll-free number or website. The Commission is mandated to review all complaints in a timely manner. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government oversight on wage agreements between employers and employees, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of free markets and minimal government interference in private contracts.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over private employment agreements
- Potential for misuse of the anonymous reporting system
- Encouragement of frivolous complaints
- ❌ SB76 Regards the debarment of state vendors
The bill amends sections of the Revised Code to establish grounds for the debarment of state vendors and contractors from consideration for contract awards. It outlines specific actions that may lead to debarment, such as failing to perform contracts, submitting false information, and engaging in unethical conduct. The debarment period is set between one to three years, and the director of administrative services or the executive director of the Ohio facilities construction commission is responsible for maintaining a list of debarred vendors. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government control over vendor participation in state contracts, which conflicts with LP principles of minimal government intervention and free market operations. While it aims to ensure integrity in contracting, it may also lead to cronyism and restrict competition, which aligns poorly with LPO principles as well.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over private contracts
- Potential for cronyism in the debarment process
- Restricts competition among vendors
- ❌ SB75 Increase penalty for failure to report a lost or stolen firearm
This bill amends section 2923.20 of the Revised Code to increase the penalty for failing to report a lost or stolen firearm. It establishes penalties for various violations related to the transfer and possession of firearms and dangerous ordnance, with specific exceptions for law enforcement officers acting within their duties. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government control over firearm ownership by imposing penalties for failure to report lost or stolen firearms, which conflicts with the LP and LPO principles advocating for minimal government interference in individual rights and the right to bear arms without restrictions.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government regulation of firearm ownership
- Potential for overreach in enforcement
- May lead to criminalization of non-violent behavior
- ❌ SB74 Create the fair paycheck workplace certificate
The bill establishes a fair paycheck workplace certificate that employers can obtain by demonstrating that the difference in average gross compensation between male and female employees is less than five percent. Employers must apply to the director of commerce, providing employee compensation data and paying a fee. The certificate is valid for six months and can be renewed annually. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government regulation on employment compensation, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of free markets and minimal government interference in labor agreements. It mandates specific reporting and compliance requirements for employers, undermining their autonomy.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over private employment practices
- Potential for discrimination against employers based on gender compensation metrics
- Administrative burden on businesses to comply with certification requirements
- ❌ SB73 Enact Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair Act
The bill enacts the Creating a Respectful and Open World for Natural Hair (CROWN) Act, which prohibits discrimination in public and private primary and secondary schools based on hair texture and protective hairstyles associated with an individual's race. Individuals alleging violations can bring civil actions against the schools. The bill amends existing sections of the Revised Code related to education and civil rights. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces government regulation to prevent discrimination based on hair texture and styles, which may be seen as an infringement on individual rights and personal choice. Both the LP and LPO platforms emphasize limited government intervention and personal liberty, suggesting a conflict with the bill's provisions.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government oversight in personal appearance matters
- Potential for legal disputes and civil actions against schools
- Possibility of unintended consequences in enforcement
- ❌ SB72 Regards filing false claims with the state, defrauding the state
This bill establishes regulations against filing false or fraudulent claims with the state, detailing prohibited actions, penalties, and the process for civil actions. It defines terms related to claims and outlines the responsibilities of the attorney general in investigating violations. The bill also provides for civil penalties and the rights of individuals who report violations. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government oversight and penalties related to claims against the state, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of limited government and individual freedom. It imposes additional regulations that may infringe on personal liberties and the free market, particularly in the context of government contracts and claims.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over individual actions
- Potential for abuse in enforcement of claims
- Chilling effect on legitimate claims due to fear of penalties
- ❌ SB71 Prohibit conversion therapy for minors by certain professionals
The bill prohibits certain licensed health care professionals from engaging in conversion therapy for minor patients, defining conversion therapy as efforts to change a person's sexual orientation or gender identity. Exceptions include providing support for individuals in the process of transitioning or offering sexual orientation-neutral interventions. Violations may result in sanctions such as suspension or revocation of licenses. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill restricts the rights of health care professionals to provide certain types of therapy, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of personal liberty and self-ownership. Both the LP and LPO platforms emphasize individual rights and oppose government interference in personal choices.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential infringement on parental rights regarding children's therapy options.
- Increased government control over health care practices.
- ❌ SB70 Enact the Ohio Fairness Act
The Ohio Fairness Act prohibits discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity or expression, adds mediation as an informal method for the Ohio Civil Rights Commission, and upholds existing religious exemptions under Ohio's Civil Rights Law. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports anti-discrimination measures which align with the Libertarian principle of individual rights, but it may conflict with the Libertarian Party's emphasis on minimal government intervention in personal relationships and employment. The LPO's score reflects a more favorable view due to its support for civil rights, though it may still see issues with government involvement in these matters.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government oversight in personal and employment matters
- Possible conflicts with religious freedoms
- ❌ SB7 Regards student instruction on harmful effects of substance use
The bill mandates public and chartered nonpublic schools in Ohio to provide annual instruction to students on the harmful effects of substance use, including drugs and alcohol. Schools must ensure that the instruction is age-appropriate, conforms to best practices, and focuses on developing knowledge, attitudes, and skills. The Department of Education will develop and periodically update a list of approved curricula and resources for this instruction. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government-mandated education on substance use, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of self-ownership and parental rights to determine their children's education. It restricts individual freedom by mandating specific content in school curricula, which is contrary to the Libertarian Party's advocacy for minimal government interference in personal choices.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over education
- Potential infringement on parental rights
- Promotion of a one-size-fits-all approach to education
- ❌ SB69 Reform the state's public retirement system law
The bill declares the General Assembly's intent to reform the laws governing Ohio's public retirement systems, including the Public Employees Retirement System, School Employees Retirement System, State Teachers Retirement System, Ohio Police & Fire Pension Fund, and State Highway Patrol Retirement System, to ensure their health and sustainability. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill involves government intervention in public retirement systems, which conflicts with Libertarian principles advocating for minimal government involvement in economic matters and individual autonomy.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over retirement systems
- Potential for cronyism in the reform process
- Reduced individual choice in retirement planning
- ✔️ SB68 Establish the Nonchartered Educational Savings Account Program
The bill establishes the Nonchartered Educational Savings Account Program, allowing parents to create educational savings accounts for students attending nonchartered nonpublic schools. The program will begin in the 2026-2027 school year, with funds allocated for tuition and educational expenses. It includes provisions for application processes, compliance monitoring, and due process for participating schools. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports parental rights in education by allowing parents to choose educational options for their children, aligning with the Libertarian Party's emphasis on personal liberty and parental rights. It also promotes market-based solutions in education, consistent with both the LP and LPO platforms advocating for free markets in education.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for misuse of funds if not properly monitored.
- Increased government oversight may conflict with the principle of minimal government intervention.
- ❌ SB67 Regards support payments under the Ohio Works First program
The bill amends sections of the Revised Code related to the Ohio Works First program, focusing on the pass-through of support payments. It establishes rules for eligibility, participation, and the collection and distribution of support payments owed to participants. The bill also outlines the conditions under which assistance groups may continue to receive benefits and the financial standards for assistance. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill expands government involvement in welfare programs, which conflicts with Libertarian principles advocating for minimal government intervention and the promotion of individual self-sufficiency. It imposes regulations on eligibility and assistance that contradict the Libertarian emphasis on personal responsibility and free markets.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government dependency
- Potential for bureaucratic inefficiency
- Restrictions on individual autonomy
- ❌ SB66 Include certain levies, taxes in school millage floor calculation
This bill amends section 319.301 of the Revised Code to include emergency levies, substitute levies, all inside millage, and school district income taxes in the calculation of a school district's effective millage floor. It requires the tax commissioner to determine and certify tax reduction factors annually for school districts, impacting how property taxes are levied. The changes apply to tax years beginning on or after the effective date of the amendment. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government control over taxation and school funding mechanisms, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and individual property rights. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for reduced taxation and limited government involvement in economic matters.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over local taxation
- Potential for higher overall tax burdens on property owners
- Reduced autonomy for school districts in financial matters
- ❌ SB65 Revise product contracts, vehicle agreements, motor vehicle laws
The bill amends various sections of the Ohio Revised Code to modify laws governing ancillary product protection contracts, vehicle value protection agreements, and regulations related to replica and rental motor vehicles. It establishes definitions and requirements for excess wear and use waivers, debt cancellation products, and the registration of replica motor vehicles, while also detailing the obligations of providers and contract holders. The bill includes provisions for the cancellation of agreements and the responsibilities of the registrar of motor vehicles. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces regulations that may increase government oversight in vehicle contracts and protections, which conflicts with the LP's emphasis on minimal government intervention in economic matters. However, it does provide some consumer protections that align with the LPO's focus on individual rights and market freedom, leading to a mixed alignment score for both parties.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government regulation may stifle free market competition.
- Potential for overreach in consumer protection laws.
- Complexity in compliance may burden small businesses.
- ❌ SB64 Increase penalties for companion animal cruelty offenses
The bill increases penalties for companion animal cruelty offenses and prohibits individuals convicted of felony animal abuse from owning companion animals for three years following their release from incarceration or conviction. It also mandates microchipping for identification of certain dogs owned by these individuals. Exceptions are provided for those confined in correctional institutions and for dogs owned prior to the bill's effective date. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes additional penalties and restrictions on individuals, which conflicts with the LP and LPO principles of limiting government intervention and protecting individual rights. It establishes further government control over personal property and ownership rights, particularly concerning companion animals.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government control over personal property rights
- Potential for overreach in enforcement of animal ownership laws
- May lead to unintended consequences for responsible pet owners
- ❌ SB63 Prohibit use of ranked choice voting; withhold funding for use
This bill prohibits the use of ranked choice voting in Ohio and mandates that any municipality or chartered county that adopts ranked choice voting will be ineligible to receive Local Government Fund distributions during the period it is in effect. The bill outlines the definitions of elections and the penalties for municipalities that implement ranked choice voting. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill restricts voting methods, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of individual rights and self-determination in the electoral process. It imposes penalties on local governments for adopting a voting method that may enhance voter choice, which is contrary to the Libertarian emphasis on free markets and individual liberties.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential disenfranchisement of voters who prefer ranked choice voting.
- Increased government control over local election processes.
- Limiting the diversity of electoral methods available to municipalities.
- ❌ SB62 Enact the School Bus Safety Act
The bill establishes a civil penalty system for drivers who illegally pass a school bus but cannot be identified, designates August as 'School Bus Safety Awareness Month', and creates a school bus safety fund to support safety improvements and public education regarding school bus laws. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government regulation and penalties related to traffic violations, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and personal responsibility. While it aims to enhance safety, it imposes additional government oversight and penalties that may not align with the Libertarian emphasis on individual rights and limited government.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over individual behavior
- Potential for misuse of surveillance technology
- Financial burden on vehicle owners due to civil penalties
- ❌ SB61 Regards courts and court procedures
The bill amends various sections of the Ohio Revised Code related to courts and court procedures, including provisions for municipal court judges' jurisdiction, the powers and duties of clerks of courts, and the handling of civil actions and tortious conduct in court. It also repeals several existing sections of the code that are deemed outdated or unnecessary. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill primarily focuses on procedural aspects of the court system, which does not directly align with the LP or LPO's emphasis on individual rights and limited government intervention. However, it does not overtly conflict with their principles either, resulting in a mixed alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over judicial processes
- May not adequately protect individual rights in legal proceedings
- ❌ SB60 Establish veterinarian telehealth visit requirements, procedures
The bill establishes requirements and procedures for veterinarian telehealth visits in Ohio, including the necessity of a veterinary-client-patient relationship, informed consent from clients, and specific protocols for prescribing medications. It mandates that veterinarians maintain documentation of consent for three years and outlines conditions under which telehealth services can be utilized, particularly for food production animals. The bill also specifies limitations on prescribing controlled substances without an in-person examination. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces regulations for telehealth services in veterinary practice, which may conflict with the LP and LPO principles of minimal government intervention and free market practices. However, it does not significantly infringe on individual rights or personal liberties, leading to a mixed alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government regulation in veterinary practices
- Potential for reduced access to veterinary care through telehealth
- Compliance burdens on veterinarians
- ❌ SB6 Revise building inspection law
The bill establishes a board of building appeals within the Department of Commerce, consisting of five members appointed by the governor. It outlines the procedures for appeals related to building inspections, including the establishment of fees for filing and processing appeals, and mandates that decisions be rendered within specified timelines. The bill also allows for expedited appeals and requires public notice for hearings concerning persons with disabilities. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces additional government oversight and regulation in the building inspection process, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market operations. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for reduced government control and emphasize individual rights, which this bill does not fully support.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over building inspections
- Potential for higher costs due to established fees
- Possibility of bureaucratic delays despite expedited processes
- ✔️ SB59 Exempt firearms and ammunition from sales and use tax
SB59 exempts the sale of certain firearms and ammunition from sales and use tax and authorizes refundable tax credits for small arms and ammunition manufacturing projects. The bill amends existing tax code sections and establishes new sections related to these exemptions and credits. It includes provisions for the tax credit authority to issue credits and requires compliance with specific conditions for taxpayers receiving credits. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill aligns with Libertarian principles by promoting individual rights to own firearms without government taxation and supporting the free market through tax credits for manufacturing. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for the right to bear arms and oppose restrictions on firearms, which this bill supports.
- ❌ SB58 Expand eligibility: grandparent POA, caretaker affidavits
The bill expands eligibility for executing a grandparent power of attorney and caretaker authorization affidavits, allowing more relatives and non-relatives to care for children in place of their parents. It specifies the rights and responsibilities granted to caretakers, including the ability to enroll children in school and consent to medical treatment, while ensuring that parental rights are not affected. The bill also outlines the process for creating, notifying, and terminating these powers of attorney and affidavits. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports parental rights by allowing them to designate caretakers, aligning with the Libertarian principles of personal responsibility and parental authority. However, it introduces additional government oversight and requirements, which may conflict with the Libertarian emphasis on minimal government intervention. Both LP and LPO platforms advocate for individual rights and limited government, leading to a mixed alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government oversight in family matters
- Potential for misuse of powers of attorney
- Complexity in legal processes for caretakers
- ✔️ SB57 Enact the Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act
The Ohio Bitcoin Reserve Act authorizes state entities to accept cryptocurrency for payments and mandates the investment of state funds in bitcoin. It establishes the Ohio bitcoin reserve fund and outlines procedures for the acceptance and conversion of cryptocurrency payments. The act also requires the treasurer of state to manage the fund and report on its status biennially. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports the acceptance of cryptocurrency, aligning with the Libertarian principles of economic freedom and individual choice in financial transactions. It also reflects the LPO's support for the right to use any means of exchange, including cryptocurrencies. However, the government involvement in managing a bitcoin reserve may introduce elements of state control that could be viewed as contrary to pure libertarian principles.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over cryptocurrency transactions.
- Risk of mismanagement of state funds invested in bitcoin.
- Volatility of cryptocurrency could impact state finances.
- ❌ SB56 Revise medical and adult-use marijuana laws; levy marijuana taxes
SB56 revises medical and adult-use marijuana laws in Ohio, consolidates the administration of the marijuana control program, and establishes a 15% excise tax on adult-use marijuana sales. The bill also includes provisions for licensing cultivators, processors, and dispensaries, as well as regulations for the cultivation and use of marijuana. It mandates criminal records checks for applicants and sets penalties for violations of the law. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- SB56 conflicts with Libertarian platforms by replacing a free hemp market with heavy state control. The bill imposes licensing, background checks, potency caps, ad approval, inspections, seizures, and taxes on peaceful adult commerce. Libertarian principles favor free markets, voluntary exchange, local control, and minimal government. SB56 expands centralized authority and restricts individual choice.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government regulation may lead to further restrictions in the future.
- The introduction of taxes could set a precedent for additional taxation on personal choices.
- ❌ SB55 Regards operating under the influence of marihuana, OVI evidence
SB55 amends Ohio's laws regarding operating a vehicle or watercraft under the influence of marijuana, establishing specific thresholds for marijuana metabolite concentrations that constitute impairment. It allows for the admissibility of chemical test results in court and outlines penalties for violations, including mandatory jail terms and fines. The bill also provides exceptions for individuals using prescribed controlled substances. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes restrictions on individual behavior regarding marijuana use, which conflicts with the Libertarian Party's principles of personal liberty and self-ownership. While it does include some provisions for individuals using prescribed substances, the overall framework of increased regulation and penalties aligns poorly with Libertarian values.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over personal choices regarding substance use.
- Potential for disproportionate penalties impacting marginalized communities.
- Encouragement of a punitive approach rather than a rehabilitative one.
- ❌ SB54 Certify specialty residential construction contractor
The bill establishes a certification process for specialty residential construction contractors in Ohio, requiring them to complete an application, maintain liability insurance, and pay a certification fee. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed with proof of continued compliance and completion of continuing education. It does not mandate certification for all residential contractors or direct labor subcontractors. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces a government certification process which aligns poorly with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free markets. It imposes requirements that could restrict entry into the construction market, conflicting with the LPO's opposition to occupational licensing and government contracts that create cronyism.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over the construction industry
- Potential barriers to entry for new contractors
- Increased costs for contractors due to certification fees and insurance requirements
Ohio House Bills with summary.
Ohio Senate Bills with summary.
For a comprehensive and up-to-date list of all bills, please refer to the official Ohio Legislature website.