Sen. Paula Hicks-Hudson

Maddy summaryThis Senate Resolution honors Oshae Jones, a boxer from Toledo, Ohio, for winning the International Boxing Federation and International Boxing Organization world championships in the super welterweight division. The measure formally recognizes her achievement in defeating Femke Hermans and commends her as one of the state's finest athletes. It directs the Senate Clerk to send an official copy of the resolution to Jones as a tribute to her success and dedication to the sport.

Maddy summaryHB 503 prohibits the feeding of garbage to swine, including feral pigs and wild boar, to address public health and environmental concerns. The bill also updates definitions within the Agricultural Commodity Handlers Law to clarify terms related to grain storage, handling, and marketing. Additionally, it authorizes the director of agriculture to charge fees for laboratory services and establishes a fund to support animal and consumer protection operations. These changes aim to regulate waste disposal practices for livestock and streamline the legal framework for agricultural commodity management.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the month of March as "Triple Negative Breast Cancer Awareness Month" to highlight this specific type of breast cancer. The primary effect is to officially recognize the month for public awareness campaigns and educational efforts related to the disease. It does not change laws, allocate funding, or mandate specific actions for government agencies or individuals. The legislation serves as a symbolic designation rather than a policy with enforceable requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a formal process for first responders, EMTs, and paramedics to petition the state board for the inclusion of new topics in their training and continuing education programs. It also updates regulations for medication aides working in nursing homes and residential care facilities by clarifying which prescription medications they can administer under nurse supervision. Specifically, the law allows aides to give oral, topical, and certain other medications, including Schedule II controlled substances and insulin, while prohibiting them from performing injections other than insulin, calculating dosages, or splitting pills. Additionally, the bill sets rules requiring the board to base training program durations on calendar days and to restrict clinical practice in facilities facing real and present dangers until safety issues are resolved.

Maddy summarySB 37 amends laws governing driver's license suspensions and penalties for failing to provide proof of financial responsibility. The bill allows municipal, mayor's, and county courts to order community service or installment payments for individuals who cannot afford to pay fines or costs associated with a conviction. If a person fails to appear in court or does not pay the imposed fines, the court can notify the motor vehicle registrar, who will then block the registration or transfer of any vehicle owned or leased by that person until the debt is cleared. The legislation also establishes standardized forms for reporting payment failures and allows the registrar to require electronic submission of these notices.

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 requires state agencies that issue professional licenses to accept applications submitted electronically through their chosen digital systems. While agencies may still offer paper applications, they cannot mandate that applicants submit physical copies if an electronic option is available. The rule applies to all state departments and offices granting licenses for trades and professions, but it excludes the state supreme court when issuing judicial licenses.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates a specific week in Ohio as "Ohio Black Media Week" to honor press freedom, information access, equity, and equality. The legislation does not create new laws or funding but serves as a symbolic recognition of these values within the state. By establishing this designation, the bill aims to highlight the role of Black media in Ohio without altering existing legal requirements.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution honoring Aida S. Montano as she retires from the Ohio Legislative Service Commission. It formally commends her nearly fifty-year career for her dedication to supporting legislative committees and maintaining the efficiency of the state's legislative process. The resolution does not create new laws or change policies but serves as an official expression of appreciation from the Senate members. Upon adoption, the Senate Clerk will send a certified copy of this commendation directly to Ms. Montano.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution that formally recognizes President Matt Huffman for his service to the Ohio Senate. It does not change any laws or policies but instead serves as an official commendation for his work as a leader and legislator. The resolution expresses appreciation for his contributions and directs the Senate Clerk to send a copy of the document to President Huffman.