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.
- ❌ SB245 Prohibit utilities from recovering political expenditure costs
The bill prohibits public utilities from recovering costs associated with political expenditures from their customers. It defines political expenditures broadly and establishes penalties for utilities that violate this prohibition, including fines and the requirement to refund customers. Additionally, it creates a fund to assist customers with past-due utility bills using fines collected from violations. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill restricts the ability of public utilities to recover costs, which may conflict with free market principles and property rights emphasized by both the LP and LPO. The broad definition of political expenditures could also be seen as an overreach of government regulation.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over utility operations
- Possibility of unintended consequences affecting utility funding
- Risk of reduced transparency in political spending
- ❌ SB244 Designate Abbey Gate Remembrance Day
The bill designates August 26th as 'Abbey Gate Remembrance Day' to honor members of the United States armed forces who lost their lives during an attack at the Abbey Gate of Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul, Afghanistan, while supporting Operation Allies Refuge in 2021. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill does not align with the Libertarian Party or Libertarian Party of Ohio principles as it involves government designation of a day of remembrance, which may be seen as a form of state endorsement of military actions and could conflict with the principles of limited government and individual liberty.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government involvement in commemorative events
- May conflict with principles of non-interventionism
- ❌ SB243 Require certain offices assist with claiming unclaimed funds
The bill requires the Registrar of Motor Vehicles and deputy registrars to assist individuals in locating and claiming unclaimed funds during in-person transactions. If a person requests assistance, the registrar or deputy registrar must check for unclaimed funds and help submit a claim if applicable. The registrar may adopt necessary policies and procedures for implementation. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces a government requirement for registrars to assist with unclaimed funds, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and individual responsibility. Both LP and LPO platforms emphasize limited government roles in personal and economic matters, suggesting a mixed alignment with the bill.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government involvement in personal financial matters
- May lead to inefficiencies in government services
- Potential for misuse of personal information
- ❌ SB242 Regards the sale of used catalytic converters
The bill regulates the sale of used catalytic converters by requiring scrap metal dealers to register with the state, maintain records of transactions, and limits the number of converters that can be purchased from an individual. It establishes penalties for violations, including fines and potential felony charges for theft of catalytic converters. Additionally, it creates a task force to address catalytic converter theft. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes significant regulations on scrap metal dealers and restricts individual transactions, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free markets. The penalties and regulatory requirements may also be viewed as an overreach of state power, undermining individual rights and property rights.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government oversight and regulation of private business
- Potential for abuse of power by law enforcement
- Higher costs for scrap metal dealers due to compliance requirements
- ❌ SB241 Regards specified workers' compensation employer appeals
The bill imposes a fine of $50,000 against employers who appeal workers' compensation awards related to cancer incurred by firefighters if the employer loses the appeal. It outlines the appeal process, including timelines for filing notices and the conditions under which penalties and costs may be assessed. The bill applies specifically to cases involving firefighters and their claims for compensation or benefits for cancer contracted during official duties. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government control over employer actions by imposing penalties for appealing workers' compensation decisions, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of limited government intervention and individual rights. Both the LP and LPO platforms emphasize the importance of personal liberty and minimal government interference in economic matters.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government control over employer decisions
- Discourages employers from appealing legitimate claims
- Potentially raises costs for businesses
- ❌ SB240 Authorize county marijuana tax for art, culture, entertainment
SB240 authorizes county commissioners to levy an excise tax on the retail sale of adult use marijuana to fund artistic, cultural, and entertainment opportunities. The tax rate can be up to three percent and must be approved by a majority of voters in the county. The tax is in addition to existing taxes and can be levied for a maximum of ten years. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports the legalization and taxation of marijuana, aligning with some Libertarian principles regarding personal liberty and self-ownership. However, it introduces a new tax mechanism, which conflicts with the Libertarian Party's emphasis on minimal taxation and government intervention, leading to a lower alignment score for both parties.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over marijuana sales
- Public funds may be misallocated or mismanaged
- Encourages reliance on tax revenue for cultural funding
- ❌ SB24 Adopt the 1905 Wright Flyer III as the state airplane
This bill enacts a new section of the Revised Code to officially designate the 1905 Wright Flyer III as the state airplane of Ohio. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill does not align with the core principles of the Libertarian Party or the Libertarian Party of Ohio, as it represents a government action that designates a state symbol, which may be seen as unnecessary government involvement in cultural matters.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government involvement in cultural affairs
- Diverts attention from more pressing issues
- May set a precedent for further state designations
- ❌ SB239 Regards contributions to the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund
The bill amends various sections of the Ohio Revised Code regarding contributions to the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund, establishing a maximum thirty-year amortization period for unfunded actuarial accrued pension liabilities and detailing the contribution rates for police and firefighter employers. It requires the board to report if the amortization period exceeds thirty years and allows for adjustments to contribution rates based on actuarial valuations. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill involves government-mandated contributions and taxation to fund public pensions, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and fiscal responsibility. It imposes financial obligations on employers and municipalities, which contradicts the Libertarian Party's advocacy for free markets and limited government.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over financial obligations
- Potential for higher taxes on property and businesses
- Long-term financial liabilities for municipalities
- ✔️ SB238 Limit liability for firearms dealers re: firearm hold agreements
The bill limits liability for federally licensed firearms dealers regarding firearm hold agreements, stating that no person can sue these dealers for actions arising from such agreements that result in personal injury or death, except in cases of unlawful conduct or if the firearm owner becomes prohibited from possessing firearms during the agreement period. It does not require dealers to enter into these agreements. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports the rights of firearms dealers and owners by limiting liability, aligning with the Libertarian principles of self-ownership and property rights. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for the right to bear arms and oppose restrictions on firearm ownership.
- ❌ SB236 Enact the Suicide Self-Defense Act
The bill establishes a 'do not possess firearms' registry in Ohio, allowing individuals to voluntarily register to prohibit themselves from purchasing, possessing, or transporting firearms. The Attorney General will manage the registry and develop a public awareness campaign. Individuals enrolled in the registry must surrender any firearms within 48 hours of registration, and violations of the registry's provisions will incur civil fines or community service requirements. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill conflicts with the Libertarian Party's principles of self-ownership and individual rights by imposing a government registry that restricts the right to bear arms. It also contradicts the Libertarian Party of Ohio's platform advocating for the repeal of laws that restrict firearm ownership, as it creates a mechanism for individuals to voluntarily limit their rights.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for misuse of the registry leading to unjust restrictions on individual rights.
- Increased government control over personal choices regarding firearms.
- Risk of creating a precedent for further restrictions on personal liberties.
- ❌ SB235 Prohibit certain conduct that accelerates firearm's rate of fire
SB235 prohibits the importation, manufacture, sale, transfer, or possession of devices that accelerate the rate of fire of semi-automatic firearms, such as trigger cranks and bump-fire devices. The bill establishes penalties for violations, classifying them as felonies, and outlines exceptions for government entities. It also amends existing laws regarding firearm possession by individuals with certain legal disabilities. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill restricts the ownership and use of certain firearm accessories, which conflicts with the Libertarian Party's principles of individual rights and the right to bear arms without government restrictions. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for the repeal of laws that limit firearm ownership and oppose government regulations on firearms.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over personal property rights
- Potential for legal challenges regarding individual rights
- Criminalization of possession of certain firearm accessories
- ❌ SB234 Increase the state minimum wage
This bill amends sections of the Revised Code to increase the state minimum wage to $12 per hour starting January 1, 2026, with annual increases up to $15 per hour by January 1, 2029. It prohibits political subdivisions from establishing a different minimum wage and mandates the director of commerce to adjust the wage rate annually based on specified criteria. Employers must maintain records and provide information to employees regarding wage rates. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes government-mandated wage increases, which conflicts with Libertarian principles advocating for free markets and minimal government interference in employment contracts. Both the LP and LPO platforms emphasize the importance of voluntary agreements between employers and employees without government-imposed wage controls.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased unemployment due to higher labor costs for employers.
- Potential for reduced hours or layoffs as businesses adjust to mandated wage increases.
- Encouragement of inflationary pressures as businesses pass on costs to consumers.
- ❌ SB233 Create the Ohio Local and Organic Food and Farm Task Force
The bill establishes the Ohio Local and Organic Food and Farm Task Force, which will consist of various stakeholders including farmers, food processors, and community representatives. The task force is tasked with developing a plan to expand and support local and organic food systems in Ohio, identifying obstacles, opportunities for land preservation, and strategies for increasing food access. The task force must submit its report to the General Assembly within two years of its creation. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill creates a government task force aimed at expanding state involvement in local and organic food systems, which conflicts with the LP's principles of minimal government intervention and free markets. The LPO also opposes government contracts that create cronyism, which this bill may inadvertently support by favoring certain agricultural sectors.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government intervention in agriculture
- Potential for cronyism and favoritism in food production
- Financial burdens on taxpayers for task force operations
- ❌ SB232 Revise the law governing high volume dog breeders
The bill revises the law governing high volume dog breeders in Ohio, establishing requirements for the care and treatment of dogs, including food, water, housing conditions, exercise, and veterinary care. It mandates inspections of high volume breeders by the director of agriculture and outlines penalties for non-compliance. The bill also defines terms related to dog breeding and establishes standards for the welfare of breeding dogs. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes significant regulations on dog breeders, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and property rights. It restricts the freedom of breeders to operate without government oversight, which is contrary to the Libertarian Party's advocacy for individual rights and free markets. The Libertarian Party of Ohio also opposes excessive government regulation, which this bill exemplifies.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over private businesses
- Potential for overreach in enforcement and inspections
- Negative impact on small breeders and pet businesses
- ❌ SB231 Establish community energy program and pilot program
The bill establishes a community energy program and pilot program in Ohio, defining community energy facilities and outlining the process for their construction, operation, and certification. It mandates public meetings for proposed facilities, allows township trustees to limit or prohibit construction, and sets guidelines for bill credits for subscribers of community energy facilities. The program aims to facilitate consumer participation and ensure equitable savings for subscribers. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government involvement in energy markets and imposes regulations on energy facilities, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free markets. The requirement for public meetings and township resolutions adds layers of bureaucracy that may hinder individual property rights and market freedom.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over energy markets
- Potential for cronyism in the certification process
- Restrictions on property rights through local resolutions
- ❌ SB230 Authorize pharmacists to test, treat certain health conditions
This bill authorizes pharmacists in Ohio to screen, test, and provide treatment for certain respiratory health conditions, including influenza, COVID-19, and others as specified by the state board of pharmacy. It mandates that health insurance providers reimburse pharmacists for these services under certain conditions. The bill also allows pharmacists to delegate certain tasks to pharmacy interns and technicians under supervision. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill expands the role of pharmacists in healthcare, which aligns with the Libertarian emphasis on individual choice and market solutions in healthcare. However, it also involves government regulation and mandates for reimbursement, which may conflict with the principles of minimal government intervention espoused by both the LP and LPO.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over healthcare practices
- Risk of overregulation impacting pharmacist autonomy
- Concerns about the quality of care provided by non-physicians
- ❌ SB23 Revise the Alcohol Franchise Law
This bill amends section 1333.82 of the Revised Code to revise the Alcohol Franchise Law, defining terms related to alcoholic beverages, manufacturers, distributors, and franchises, and establishing the concept of 'good faith' in franchise relationships. It specifies that manufacturers producing less than 250,000 barrels of beer annually are not included in the definition of 'manufacturer.' Existing section 1333.82 is repealed. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill includes provisions that may support free market principles by defining relationships between manufacturers and distributors, but it also imposes regulations that could be seen as government interference in the alcohol market. This mixed approach results in moderate alignment with both the LP and LPO platforms.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government regulation in the alcohol industry
- May limit competition by defining manufacturer thresholds
- ❌ SB229 Create the Law Enforcement Purple Heart license plate
The bill creates a 'Law Enforcement Purple Heart' license plate for individuals who have been awarded this honor. Eligible applicants must provide documentary evidence of their award and may apply for the plates without paying registration or service fees. The bill also includes penalties for falsely representing oneself as a recipient of the award. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill establishes a government program that provides special benefits to a specific group, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of limited government and equal treatment under the law. It creates a form of government favoritism that undermines the core tenets of individual rights and free markets.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Encourages government favoritism
- Potential for misuse of the license plate system
- Increases government involvement in personal recognition
- ❌ SB228 Create the Lifetown license plate
The bill creates the 'Lifetown' specialty license plate in Ohio, requiring applicants to pay a regular license tax, an administrative fee, and a contribution of fifteen dollars to a designated fund. The funds collected will support Lifetown, incorporated, and its programs and activities. The registrar of motor vehicles will issue the plates upon compliance with application requirements. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill involves government regulation and funding of specific charitable organizations, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market solutions. It also imposes additional fees on vehicle registration, which contradicts the Libertarian Party's stance against taxation and government spending.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increases government control over charitable contributions
- Imposes additional fees on citizens
- Potential for misuse of funds
- ❌ SB227 Cap cost sharing for prescription insulin drugs
The bill caps cost sharing for prescription insulin drugs at thirty-five dollars per thirty-day supply for health plans issued or renewed after the effective date. This applies to all covered prescription insulin drugs used to treat diabetes. No penalties or exceptions are specified. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes a government mandate on health plans regarding pricing for insulin, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of free markets and minimal government intervention in economic matters.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over healthcare pricing
- Potential for reduced competition in the insulin market
- Encouragement of further government intervention in healthcare
- ❌ SB226 Regards use of light-based medical devices for hair removal
This bill amends existing regulations and establishes new criteria for the delegation of the application of light-based medical devices for hair removal by physicians to qualified professionals, including nurses and laser hair removal professionals. It outlines the necessary training, supervision requirements, and exemptions for certain individuals who have prior experience in the field. Violations of these provisions are classified as departures from minimal standards of care. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces regulatory requirements for the use of light-based medical devices, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and personal liberty in health-related choices. Both the LP and LPO platforms advocate for reduced government control over personal decisions, suggesting that this bill may impose unnecessary restrictions on individuals' rights to choose their hair removal methods.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government regulation on personal health choices
- Potential for reduced access to hair removal services
- Higher costs for consumers due to compliance requirements
- ❌ SB225 Expand the Address Confidentiality Program
The bill expands the Address Confidentiality Program in Ohio, allowing individuals who fear for their safety due to domestic violence, stalking, human trafficking, or similar crimes to apply for a confidential address. It establishes criteria for eligibility, application procedures, and the responsibilities of the Secretary of State in managing the program. The certification lasts for four years and can be renewed under specified conditions. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports the protection of individuals' safety and privacy, which aligns with the Libertarian principles of personal liberty and privacy. However, it involves government oversight and regulation that may conflict with the Libertarian Party's emphasis on minimal government intervention. Both parties may view the expansion of government programs with skepticism, leading to a mixed alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over personal information
- Potential for misuse of the program
- Administrative burden on the Secretary of State's office
- ❌ SB224 Make changes to the telemarketing law
The bill amends section 109.87 of the Revised Code to update the telemarketing law, aligning state regulations with federal laws regarding telemarketing practices. It prohibits telemarketers from violating federal telemarketing regulations and allows the attorney general to investigate and enforce compliance, including issuing civil penalties for violations. The bill also outlines the definitions of terms related to telemarketing and the responsibilities of voice service providers. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill imposes regulations on telemarketing practices, which may conflict with the Libertarian principles of minimal government interference in personal and economic activities. However, it does not significantly expand government powers beyond existing federal regulations, leading to a mixed alignment with the Libertarian Party of Ohio's platform.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government oversight of telemarketing practices.
- Possibility of overreach in enforcement actions by the attorney general.
- ❌ SB223 Require ODNR discount program for veterans, service members
The bill requires the Chief of the Division of Parks and Watercraft to establish a discount program for veterans and service members, providing a 25% discount on park services and rentals, excluding merchandise purchases. The program is to be implemented through rules adopted in accordance with Chapter 119 of the Revised Code. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces a government program that provides discounts based on veteran status, which may conflict with the LP's principles of individual rights and limited government intervention. The LPO's mixed score reflects some support for veterans but concerns about government involvement in pricing and services.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government control over park services
- Creation of a precedent for special treatment based on status
- Risk of cronyism in the implementation of the discount program
- ❌ SB222 Require audit, action plan-Aged, Blind, Disabled Medicaid group
The bill requires the Ohio Department of Medicaid to conduct an audit of the Medicaid program for the Aged, Blind, and Disabled eligibility group to identify ineligible enrollees. It mandates the disenrollment of individuals found ineligible and the establishment of an electronic asset verification system, aiming to reduce Medicaid spending by $2.4 billion during the biennium. An appropriation of $5 million is designated for the audit management and services. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government oversight and control over Medicaid enrollees, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of individual rights and limited government intervention. It promotes spending cuts through disenrollment, which may undermine the support for vulnerable populations, contradicting the Libertarian emphasis on personal responsibility and individual rights.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential disenrollment of eligible individuals
- Increased government control over personal health care decisions
- Risk of privacy violations with data sharing agreements
- ❌ SB221 Create the Equality Ohio license plate
The bill establishes the 'Equality Ohio' license plate, allowing vehicle owners to apply for these plates, which will display a logo and words approved by representatives of Equality Ohio. A contribution of fifteen dollars is required for the license plate, which will be deposited into a fund to support LGBTQ+ visibility and education. The bill also outlines the administrative fees and processes for issuing these plates. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill supports LGBTQ+ visibility and education, aligning with the LP's emphasis on personal liberty and non-discrimination based on sexual orientation. However, it involves government regulation and funding mechanisms that may conflict with the LPO's principles of limited government and free markets, leading to a lower alignment score.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Potential for increased government involvement in personal choices
- Funding may be seen as a form of government endorsement of specific social issues
- ❌ SB220 Establish paramedicine programs; require insurance coverage
The bill establishes community paramedicine programs allowing emergency medical technicians to provide nonemergency medical services and requires health insurance coverage for these services. It mandates that programs operate under medical oversight and outlines the types of services that can be provided, including chronic disease management and health education. Medicaid will also cover these services if certain conditions are met. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces government-mandated insurance coverage and oversight of medical services, which conflicts with the Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and free market healthcare. Both LP and LPO platforms emphasize individual rights and limited government, which are not fully supported by this bill.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over healthcare services
- Potential for reduced competition in healthcare markets
- Mandated insurance coverage may lead to higher costs for consumers
- ❌ SB22 Authorize tax credit or rebate for certain homeowners, renters
The bill authorizes a refundable income tax credit or rebate for homeowners and renters whose property taxes or a portion of their rent exceed five percent of their income. Eligible claimants must have occupied a homestead for at least six months and have total household resources not exceeding a specified limit. The credit or rebate amount is determined based on the excess of property tax or rent-equivalent tax paid over five percent of the claimant's total household resources. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill introduces a government tax credit system, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and taxation. Both the LP and LPO oppose government programs that redistribute wealth or provide financial assistance through taxation, viewing them as infringements on individual rights and property ownership.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over financial matters
- Potential for dependency on government assistance
- Encouragement of tax manipulation to qualify for credits
- ❌ SB219 Revise the law governing oil and gas wells
The bill revises the law governing oil and gas wells in Ohio, including definitions, permitting processes, and regulatory authority of the division of oil and gas resources management. It establishes requirements for liability insurance, bonding, and the management of orphaned wells, while also detailing the application process for drilling permits and the conditions under which they may be issued or denied. The bill aims to ensure safe and regulated oil and gas production while addressing environmental and public health concerns. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill increases government regulation and oversight of the oil and gas industry, which conflicts with Libertarian principles advocating for minimal government intervention and free market operations. It imposes requirements on property owners and operators that may infringe on individual rights and property rights, particularly through mandatory insurance and bonding. The alignment scores reflect the significant government control introduced by the bill.
- Risks and Concerns:
- Increased government control over private property rights
- Potential for regulatory overreach impacting small operators
- Higher costs for compliance may deter investment in the oil and gas sector
- ✔️ SB218 Exempt armed forces-certified child care provider from licensure
SB218 exempts family child care providers certified by a branch of the United States armed forces from the licensure requirements set forth in section 5104.02 of the Revised Code. This amendment allows these providers to operate without a state-issued license, while maintaining existing exemptions for other types of child care programs. (Introduced In Senate) Legislature reference...- The bill aligns with the Libertarian principles of reducing government regulation and allowing individuals more freedom in their choices, particularly in the context of child care. Both the LP and LPO support minimizing government interference in personal and economic matters, which this bill facilitates by exempting certain providers from licensing 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.