Rep. Sean Brennan

Maddy summaryHB 658 would create a new "SHELTER" specialty license plate option for Ohio vehicle owners. This plate would be available for purchase as an alternative to standard license plates, adding it to the state's existing specialty plate program under Revised Code section 4503.728. The bill does not specify funding mechanisms or direct beneficiary organizations, focusing solely on establishing the plate design. It is currently in committee review following its introduction on January 27, 2026.

To amend section 1321.44 and to enact sections 1317.081, 1321.142, 1321.412, 1321.593, and 1321.633 of the Revised Code to prohibit financing the purchase of a dog or cat.

Maddy summaryHB 621 changes how pet store license fees and penalties are handled. Instead of going to the general state treasury, these funds will now be deposited into a new "pet store license fund" created by the bill. The director of agriculture must use this dedicated fund to administer pet store regulations under the Revised Code. This bill directly affects pet store license holders (who pay the fees) and the state's administrative process for regulating pet stores, without altering the underlying requirements for pet stores.

To amend sections 323.12, 323.13, 325.31, 4503.06, 5709.56, and 5713.01 and to enact sections 323.123 and 5705.171 of the Revised Code to modify the law governing property taxes and other local taxes.

To enact section 5534.856 of the Revised Code to designate a portion of State Route 94 in Cuyahoga County as the "Specialist Fourth Class Frank A. Herda, Medal of Honor Recipient, Memorial Highway."

Maddy summaryHB 614, titled the "Second Chance Safety Act," provides civil immunity to federally licensed firearm dealers and law enforcement agencies that enter into firearm hold agreements with firearm owners. The bill creates a legal mechanism allowing owners to temporarily transfer firearms to these entities for safekeeping, with the agreement documented in writing. Key provisions shield dealers and agencies from civil lawsuits related to the hold agreement, such as claims of wrongful detention or loss. This policy change directly affects firearm owners seeking temporary storage solutions and the participating dealers/agencies handling such arrangements.

Maddy summaryHB 609 requires public bodies (like city councils, school boards, and county commissions) to allow public comment before taking formal action on any agenda item. The bill amends Ohio's Revised Code to mandate that these bodies set aside specific time during meetings for citizens to speak about topics under consideration. This change directly affects how local government meetings are conducted, ensuring community input is heard before decisions are made. The key provision is a procedural requirement for public bodies to incorporate public testimony into their meeting process prior to voting.

Maddy summaryHB 57 requires Ohio schools to establish written policies allowing trained staff to administer overdose reversal drugs (like naloxone) during opioid overdose emergencies. It directly affects school staff, administrators, and students by creating clear protocols for emergency response. Key provisions include mandating staff training on drug administration, specifying when and how the drugs may be used, and requiring documentation of each administration. The bill aims to enable swift, life-saving interventions in school settings without requiring individual prescriptions for each incident. These changes apply to all public and private schools operating within Ohio.

Maddy summaryHB 597 prohibits the operation of drones (unmanned aerial vehicles) over school property, directly affecting school districts, students, and drone operators. The bill amends Ohio Revised Code sections 4561.50 and adds new section 4561.54 to establish this restriction. It applies to all public and private school grounds during school hours and events, making drone flights over these areas unlawful without authorization.

To amend sections 4503.06, 5713.07, 5713.08, and 5715.27 and to enact sections 5709.29 and 5709.99 of the Revised Code to authorize local governments to create residential stability zones where homeowners may qualify for a partial property tax exemption.