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.
- ❌ 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
- ❌ SB53 Regards civil actions for vandalism or riot activity injuries
The bill establishes civil actions for individuals who suffer injury or loss due to vandalism or riot activity, allowing them to seek compensatory and punitive damages from offenders and those who provided material support for such activities. It also prohibits government officials from limiting law enforcement's authority to arrest individuals involved in these activities and protects employees from punitive actions for participating in related investigations. The bill allows for civil actions regardless of whether the offender has been criminally charged or convicted. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government control over civil actions related to vandalism and riot activities, which conflicts with the LP's principles of limiting government force and protecting individual rights. The LPO's score reflects mixed elements, as it supports some aspects of accountability but may conflict with its stance on limiting government overreach.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government overreach in civil matters
- Encouragement of punitive actions against individuals for actions of others
- Risk of chilling effect on free expression and assembly
- ❌ SB52 Designate Congressman David Hobson Memorial Highway
This bill designates a portion of U.S. Route 33 in Fairfield County and I-70 in Clark County as the 'Congressman David Hobson Memorial Highway.' The Director of Transportation is authorized to erect suitable markers indicating the highway's name. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill does not align with the Libertarian Party or Libertarian Party of Ohio principles, as it involves government action to designate a memorial highway, which can be seen as unnecessary government involvement and expenditure.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government involvement in public naming conventions
- Potential misuse of government resources for non-essential projects
- ❌ SB51 Establish legislative oversight of executive unemployment action
The bill establishes legislative oversight of executive actions related to voluntary federal unemployment compensation programs. It allows the Ohio General Assembly to disapprove agreements or orders issued by the governor or the director of job and family services that implement such programs. Upon disapproval, the governor or director is required to rescind the agreement or order promptly. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government oversight and control over unemployment compensation programs, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market operations. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for limited government involvement in economic matters, thus opposing this bill.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over unemployment benefits
- Potential for reduced efficiency in unemployment program implementation
- Limitation of individual choice in unemployment assistance
- ❌ SB50 Regards age and schooling certificates, minor work hours
The bill amends sections 3331.02 and 4109.07 of the Revised Code to modify the requirements for age and schooling certificates and work hour regulations for minors under sixteen years of age. It specifies documentation needed for employment, limits work hours during school days, and establishes conditions under which minors may work. The bill also mandates the creation of a minor work hour notification form by the director of commerce. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government regulations on the employment of minors, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention in personal and economic matters. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for free markets and parental rights in education and employment decisions, which are restricted by this bill.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over employment practices
- Potential negative impact on minors' ability to gain work experience
- Restrictions on parental rights regarding their children's employment
- ❌ SB5 Expedite unauthorized occupant removal; prohibit fraudulent deeds
The bill provides for the expedited removal of unauthorized occupants from residential properties by allowing record owners or their agents to request immediate removal by law enforcement under specific conditions. It also prohibits the use and sale of fraudulent deeds related to real property. Violations of these provisions can result in civil actions for wrongful removal or criminal charges for title fraud. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports property rights by facilitating the removal of unauthorized occupants, which aligns with the Libertarian emphasis on property ownership. However, it may conflict with the LP's principles regarding government overreach and individual rights, particularly in the expedited removal process. The LPO's score reflects a more favorable view on property rights but still recognizes potential concerns about government involvement.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for abuse in expedited removal process
- Increased government intervention in property disputes
- Risk of wrongful removal claims
- ❌ SB49 Regards right of first refusal-acquiring school district property
The bill eliminates the right of first refusal for certain schools in acquiring school district real property, requiring boards of education to sell property at public auction or through private sale after a failed auction. It also establishes conditions under which community schools and similar entities may sell property purchased under previous provisions. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill's provisions regarding property sales may conflict with Libertarian principles of property rights and free markets, as it imposes government regulations on how property can be sold and limits the rights of certain entities. Both LP and LPO platforms emphasize minimal government interference in property transactions.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over property transactions
- Potential for cronyism in property sales
- Restrictions on the rights of educational institutions to manage their assets
- ❌ SB48 Regards auditing of chartered nonpublic schools
The bill mandates the auditor of state to conduct annual audits of chartered nonpublic schools that receive public funds, including those participating in the educational choice scholarship program and receiving reimbursements for administrative costs and auxiliary services. The existing section 117.113 of the Revised Code is repealed. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government oversight and control over chartered nonpublic schools, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and parental control over education. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for reduced government involvement in education and the free market's role in providing educational services.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over educational institutions
- Potential for reduced parental choice in education
- Increased bureaucratic oversight and compliance costs for schools
- ❌ SB47 Require certain disclosures of for-profit school, college status
The bill requires for-profit community school operators and post-secondary educational institutions in Ohio to disclose their for-profit status on their official websites, promotional materials, and contracts for instruction. The disclosures must be prominently displayed in a type size that is equal to or larger than other text. The Department of Education and Workforce will adopt rules to enforce these requirements. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes additional regulatory requirements on for-profit educational institutions, which conflicts with the Libertarian Party's principles of minimal government intervention and free market operations. The Libertarian Party of Ohio also opposes government regulations that interfere with market dynamics, leading to a lower alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government regulation of private institutions
- Potential for reduced market competition
- Possibility of unintended consequences affecting educational choices
- ❌ SB46 Add screening awareness to Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
The bill amends section 5.2219 of the Revised Code to designate March as 'Colorectal Cancer Screening and Awareness Month,' adding a focus on screening awareness. It repeals the existing section 5.2219. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill promotes a government-mandated awareness initiative, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and individual autonomy in health decisions.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government involvement in health awareness
- May lead to further government mandates in health-related matters
- ❌ SB45 Expand eligibility for county sewer discounted rates or charges
The bill amends section 6117.02 of the Revised Code to expand eligibility for discounted rates or charges for county sewer services. It allows discounts for individuals who are 65 years or older, low- and moderate-income persons, or those experiencing temporary hardship. The board of county commissioners is responsible for establishing eligibility requirements and may set reasonable rates and penalties for late payments. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces government-mandated discounts and establishes eligibility criteria, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market operations. Both LP and LPO platforms emphasize limited government roles in economic matters, suggesting that this bill may not align with their core principles.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government control over pricing and services
- Potential for cronyism in establishing eligibility criteria
- May lead to inefficiencies in service provision
- ❌ SB44 Allow students to concurrently receive certain state scholarships
The bill allows qualifying students to concurrently receive an Educational Choice scholarship or Pilot Project scholarship along with either an Autism or Jon Peterson Special Needs scholarship. It specifies that the total amount received under both scholarships cannot exceed the total cost of services or tuition and fees provided. The bill also outlines eligibility criteria and conditions for continued scholarship receipt. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports parental choice in education funding, aligning with Libertarian principles of individual rights and parental rights. However, it involves government funding and regulation of education, which may conflict with the Libertarian emphasis on minimal government intervention.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over education funding
- Potential for dependency on state scholarships
- Complexity in eligibility and compliance requirements
- ✔️ SB43 Repeal the authorization of a special county lodging tax
The bill repeals the authorization for counties to levy a special lodging tax on hotel transactions, which was previously set at a maximum rate of three percent. It eliminates the provisions for the tax's administration, allocation, and penalties for late payments. The repeal will take effect on a date specified by the board of county commissioners. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill aligns with Libertarian principles by reducing government taxation and control over local economies, promoting individual property rights, and supporting free market principles. Both the LP and LPO advocate for minimal government intervention in economic matters, which this bill supports by eliminating a tax that could be seen as a government overreach.
- ❌ SB42 Authorize residential stability zones with property tax exemption
SB42 authorizes local governments in Ohio to create residential stability zones where homeowners may qualify for a partial property tax exemption. The bill outlines eligibility criteria, including household income limits and minimum ownership periods, and specifies application procedures and the duration of the exemptions. The exemptions can last up to ten years, with provisions for renewal. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces government intervention in property taxation and creates exemptions based on income and ownership criteria, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government involvement in economic matters and property rights. It also establishes a framework for government control over property taxes, which is contrary to the Libertarian Party's advocacy for free markets and limited government.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over property taxation
- Potential for cronyism in the designation of residential stability zones
- Dependency on government exemptions may undermine personal responsibility
- ❌ SB41 Designate Day of Tears
This bill designates January 22 as the 'Day of Tears' to observe the anniversary of the Supreme Court ruling on abortion and to remember unborn children lost to abortion. Residents are encouraged to lower their flags to half-staff on this day. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill promotes a specific viewpoint on abortion, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of personal liberty and self-ownership, as it restricts individual rights regarding reproductive choices.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government involvement in personal health decisions
- Encourages state endorsement of specific moral viewpoints
- ❌ SB40 Authorize tax credit for pregnancy resource center donations
The bill authorizes a nonrefundable tax credit for donations made to certified pregnancy resource centers and maternity homes in Ohio. The credit is limited to 50% of the taxpayer's aggregate tax liability for the taxable year, with provisions for carrying forward excess credits for up to five years. Certified centers must not perform or promote nontherapeutic abortions and must meet specific criteria to qualify. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill promotes government intervention in the form of tax credits for specific organizations, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government involvement in personal choices and economic activities. It also imposes restrictions on organizations based on their stance on abortion, which may infringe on individual rights and freedoms.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government control over charitable donations
- Potentially discriminates against organizations based on their stance on abortion
- Encourages cronyism by favoring specific organizations
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.