Maddy summaryThis bill updates the state's companion animal cruelty law by clarifying that the protections apply to any animal kept inside a home, as well as all dogs and cats regardless of their location, while explicitly excluding livestock and wild animals. The legislation defines specific terms like "residential dwelling" and "dog kennel" to ensure consistent application of the rules across different settings. It maintains existing prohibitions against intentional abuse, neglect, and failure to provide adequate food, water, or shelter, with stricter standards applied to those who operate dog kennels. The bill also outlines exceptions for animals used in scientific research, veterinary care, and hunting, and establishes how fines collected from violations will be distributed to relevant local agencies.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryHB 685 allows Ohio taxpayers to claim a state income tax deduction specifically for overtime wages. This provision directly affects employees who earn extra pay for working beyond their standard hours and are subject to state income tax. The bill modifies the state tax code to treat these overtime earnings similarly to how they are handled for federal tax purposes, ensuring they can be deducted from taxable income. By aligning the treatment of overtime wages with federal standards, the legislation aims to reduce the state tax burden on workers receiving such compensation.
Maddy summaryThis bill creates a tax incentive for employers in Ohio who provide paid parental leave to their staff. To qualify for the benefit, an employer must register with the federal E-Verify system and offer at least 56 days of paid leave following the birth, adoption, or stillbirth of a child. The state will offer a nonrefundable tax credit to these qualifying employers, capped at $54,000 annually, which is calculated based on the amount of leave benefits paid to employees. The legislation also establishes reporting requirements for the tax commissioner to track the number of credits claimed and their total value.
Maddy summaryHB 666, titled the Protecting Ohio Communities Act, requires state and local authorities to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement and prohibits municipalities from passing laws that hinder this cooperation. The bill mandates that local police share arrestee information with federal agencies and detain individuals unlawfully present in the U.S. until they are transferred to federal custody. Additionally, it requires government entities to verify the immigration status of applicants for public benefits using federal databases. Municipalities that fail to comply with these requirements or enact conflicting ordinances risk losing state homeland security funding.
Maddy summaryThis bill is a commemorative resolution honoring the late Jo Ann Davidson, a former Ohio state legislator who served as the first female Speaker of the House. It formally expresses the House of Representatives' condolences to her family and acknowledges her significant contributions to Ohio public service and leadership. The resolution directs the Clerk to send an official copy of the document to Davidson's family as a gesture of respect.