Ohio legislative panels explained

This summer, bipartisan study committees will be meeting to discuss two large problems our state is facing: opioid addiction and unemployment compensation debt. Hearings on these subjects will be held throughout the state this fall in August and September.

This summer’s committees are named:

• Law Enforcement Perspectives on the Drug Epidemic & Its Impact on Families Study Committee
•  Unemployment Compensation Debt & Reducing Burdens on Businesses Study Committee.

While the committee titles are long, it is for good reason. These are complex issues that have been plaguing our state for sometime, and it is time to tackle these issues head on by hearing comments, concerns, and potential remedies from experts in the field.  The person-to-person interaction of the summer committees gives Ohioans throughout the state a chance to discuss their perspective on these issues and  bring about a positive change. It is my hope that these hearings will help form policy ideas that lead to future legislation.

I am honored to be serving on the Unemployment Compensation Debt & Reducing Burdens on Businesses Study Committee. My colleagues and I will focus on the State of Ohio’s Unemployment Trust Fund, repayment of debt, and the structural issues that led to insolvency.  We will also delve into the history and background of the fund, the impact on the business community and economy, and recommendations for repayment and structural adjustments.

Please let me know if you are interested in attending a committee meeting or testifying before one or both of these committees. I look forward to hearing from you this fall. My office can be reached at 614.644.5091 or by email at Rep82@ohiohouse.gov.