Rep. Ron Ferguson

Maddy summaryHB 704 requires hospitals to make their pricing information more transparent by posting detailed lists of standard charges on their websites. The bill defines specific pricing terms, such as "gross charge" and "discounted cash price," and mandates that hospitals provide this data in a digital format that computers can easily read. Hospitals must display these prices for all items and services, including negotiated rates for different insurance plans and costs for patients paying out of pocket. This law directly affects hospitals in the state, forcing them to update their online platforms to show clear, machine-readable pricing details for both inpatient and outpatient care.

Maddy summaryHB 66 allows wholesale dealers and distributors of cigarettes, tobacco, and vapor products to request refunds for state taxes paid on inventory that becomes uncollectible. To qualify for a refund, the business must prove the debt was uncollected for at least six months, that the products were delivered, and that reasonable collection efforts were made. The bill sets a three-year limit for filing these claims and requires the tax commissioner to verify documentation before issuing refunds from the state's tax refund fund. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that if a bad debt is later paid off, the business must repay the prorated portion of the tax refund it previously received.

Maddy summaryHB 319, known as the Conscientious Right to Refuse Act, prohibits discrimination against adults and emancipated minors who decline specific medical treatments, such as vaccines, biologics, or gene editing, based on religious or other conscientious beliefs. The law protects these individuals from facing negative consequences like job termination, denial of services, segregation, or financial penalties by employers, healthcare providers, government agencies, and educational institutions. If a person believes they have been discriminated against, the bill allows them to sue for money damages, court costs, and attorney fees, with the possibility of receiving triple damages if they win their case. While the legislation creates these protections, it explicitly states that it does not stop organizations from recommending, educating about, or providing access to the medical interventions in question.

Maddy summaryHB 236, known as the Never Alone Act, requires healthcare facilities like nursing homes and hospitals to allow patients and residents to have an advocate present with them during public health emergencies. The bill defines an advocate as a family member, legal guardian, or other designated individual who supports the patient's interests, while explicitly prohibiting advocates from interfering with medical care or engaging in misconduct. Facilities must inform patients of their right to choose an advocate upon admission and must grant access to the advocate unless the patient objects, the advocate violates rules, or the patient is in a group therapy session. This law ensures that vulnerable individuals in care settings can maintain a support system during crises without requiring facilities to hire professional advocates themselves.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution honoring the memory of Barbara C. Pringle, a former Cleveland City Council member and long-serving Ohio state representative. It formally acknowledges her contributions to public service and directs the House Clerk to send a copy of the tribute to her family. The measure does not enact new laws or policies but serves as a ceremonial gesture to express sympathy and respect for her life and legacy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a commemorative resolution that honors Laura Battocletti on her retirement from her role as executive director of the Ohio Capitol Square Review and Advisory Board. It recognizes her distinguished career in public service, which includes previous leadership positions with the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Casino Control Commission. The text formally commends her dedication and instructs the House Clerk to send an official copy of the resolution to her as a gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill formally recognizes Jay Edwards for his distinguished service as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives. It commends his leadership roles, including chairing the Finance Committee, and acknowledges his background as a small business owner and realtor. The resolution directs the House Clerk to send an official copy of this commendation to Edwards, serving as a ceremonial honor rather than a change in law or policy.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that formally recognizes Gail K. Pavliga for her service as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives. It commends her legislative work and community involvement, noting her roles on committees such as Behavioral Health and Finance. The resolution directs the House Clerk to send an official copy of the document to Pavliga as a gesture of appreciation.

Maddy summaryThis bill formally recognizes Brett Hudson Hillyer for his distinguished service as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives. It praises his background in law and public service within Tuscarawas and southern Stark Counties, highlighting his work on various committees and his dedication to his constituents. The resolution commends him as an esteemed representative and directs the House Clerk to send an official copy of the document to him.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a resolution that formally recognizes and honors Bill Seitz for his service as a member of the Ohio House of Representatives. It highlights his background as an attorney and community leader, noting his work on various committees and his legislative contributions. The resolution expresses appreciation for his dedication and instructs the House Clerk to send an official copy of the commendation to him.