Rep. Angie King

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 370 clarifies the Ohio Department of Transportation's authority and responsibilities regarding state highways located within cities and villages. The bill grants the Director of Transportation broad powers to alter, construct, and maintain these roads, including the ability to purchase or appropriate land for improvements like bridges, bike paths, and drainage systems. It also allows the department to acquire property in the name of the state or, in specific cases involving railroads and utilities, directly in the name of those entities. Furthermore, the legislation explicitly states that the state has no mandatory duty to repair state highways inside municipal limits unless the local government requests and approves the work.

Maddy summaryHB 661 establishes new regulations for imitation meat and egg products, requiring schools and the Department of Education and Workforce to adopt policies that prevent the purchase of foods misbranded as meat or eggs or cultivated-protein products. The bill amends existing state codes to mandate these restrictions, aiming to ensure accurate labeling and consumer protection regarding alternative protein sources. By setting clear procurement standards, the legislation directly affects educational institutions and state agencies responsible for food purchasing decisions.

Maddy summaryHB 654, known as the STORK Act, proposes changes to Ohio's personal income tax code by creating a new exemption and credit specifically for conceived children. The bill would also redefine how "adjusted gross income" is calculated for state tax purposes by adding certain interest and dividends while deducting others, such as those related to federal tax-exempt obligations and specific social security benefits. Additionally, the legislation expands deductions for medical care insurance and long-term care expenses, including adjustments for dependents who do not meet standard federal income limits. These provisions aim to align state tax calculations more closely with federal definitions while offering targeted relief for families and specific financial situations.

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.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates September as Veterans Suicide Awareness and Prevention Day to highlight the issue of suicide among military veterans. The legislation amends the state code to officially recognize this specific month for awareness and prevention efforts, replacing any previous designations. By establishing this annual observance, the bill aims to increase public focus on mental health resources and support systems for veterans. The change is administrative and does not alter existing funding or create new programs, serving primarily as a symbolic gesture to promote dialogue on the topic.

Maddy summaryHB 214 establishes detailed requirements for community schools in Ohio by mandating that their contracts with sponsors include specific provisions regarding student attendance, financial auditing, and nonsectarian operations. The bill requires these schools to maintain licensed classroom teachers while allowing limited exceptions for noncertificated staff and mandates that they provide at least 920 hours of learning annually to a minimum of 25 students. Additionally, the legislation outlines strict rules for facility usage, insurance coverage, and compliance with state education standards, ensuring that community schools operate with the same accountability measures as traditional school districts.

Maddy summaryHB 250 directs the state to update academic standards and model curricula for grades K-12 in subjects including English, math, science, social studies, technology, financial literacy, fine arts, foreign languages, and physical education. The bill specifically requires that social studies standards cover the original texts of the Declaration of Independence, the Northwest Ordinance, and the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions, while also mandating that financial literacy and entrepreneurship standards include concepts related to free market capitalism. Additionally, the legislation establishes a separate Military Enlistment diploma seal fund and makes administrative corrections regarding the State Board of Education versus the Director of Education and Workforce.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows mothers who are breastfeeding infants one year of age or younger to be excused from jury service. It achieves this by adding breastfeeding to the list of conditions that constitute "undue or extreme physical or financial hardship" under existing state laws. To qualify for an exemption, a mother only needs to provide a signed affidavit stating she is breastfeeding, which serves as sufficient documentation for the court. The exemption applies only for the specific jury year in which the request is made and does not grant permanent immunity from future jury duty.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a commemorative resolution that honors Hogenkamp Funeral Home in Ohio for its 150th anniversary. It formally recognizes the business's long-standing reputation for high standards and compassion while directing the House Clerk to send an official copy of the tribute to the funeral home. The measure does not alter any laws or policies but serves solely to acknowledge the company's historical contributions to the community.