Maddy summaryThis bill amends laws governing debt suspension products, vehicle protection agreements, and ancillary product protection contracts to clarify definitions and consumer protections. It explicitly states that agreements waiving fees for excess wear, mileage, or vehicle damage are not insurance products and cannot be required as a condition for obtaining credit or leasing a vehicle. The legislation also mandates that sellers provide insurance policies before a buyer becomes liable on a loan and requires that charges for debt suspension products be listed as specific goods rather than interest. Additionally, the bill updates the definition of ancillary protection contracts to include services like paintless dent removal and key replacement while excluding standard service contracts and warranties.
Sponsored bills
Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a state Board of Building Appeals to oversee disputes and variances related to building inspections and codes. The board will consist of five appointed members representing diverse professions, including law, architecture, engineering, fire prevention, and plumbing, with specific rules for local municipal boards. It creates a formal process where local boards or the state board can hear appeals from enforcement orders, granting variances when strict rule enforcement would cause unnecessary hardship or considering a building's historical significance. The legislation also sets fee limits for processing appeals and mandates that hearing records be open to public inspection.
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 summarySB 286 creates the Ohio River Commission, an independent state agency within the Department of Development tasked with promoting economic growth, marine cargo terminal operations, and tourism along the Ohio River and its tributaries. The commission will be composed of state officials, public representatives, and industry experts appointed by the governor and legislative leaders, with terms ranging from two to four years. Its primary duties include developing a master plan for river infrastructure, coordinating with various state and local agencies, collecting economic data, and seeking federal grants to support projects that enhance commerce and regional prosperity. Additionally, the commission is authorized to administer development funds and advocate for policies that address the decline in coal production while fostering new industries in the Appalachian region.
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.
Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits individuals from knowingly installing tracking devices or apps on someone else's property without their consent. It also requires the removal of such devices if the original consent is revoked, with consent automatically considered revoked in situations like divorce filings or protection orders. The law includes specific exceptions for law enforcement, parents tracking their own children, caregivers of vulnerable adults, and licensed private investigators working on legitimate business matters.
Maddy summarySB 109 amends Ohio Revised Code sections related to sex offenses and individuals regulated by the State Medical Board to update the definition of "public record." The bill expands the list of confidential records to include various sensitive categories, such as protected health information, donor profiles, and details about children involved in traffic accidents with school vehicles. By clarifying what information remains private, the legislation aims to protect personal data held by government agencies and other public offices. This change directly affects state departments, courts, and medical boards that manage these records, ensuring they adhere to the new confidentiality standards.
Maddy summarySB 6 directs state retirement boards, the Bureau of Workers' Compensation, and state universities to invest their funds primarily to maximize financial returns for participants. The bill explicitly prohibits these entities from making investment decisions intended to influence social or environmental policies or corporate governance. While the legislation requires giving equal consideration to minority and women-owned businesses when selecting investments, it mandates that financial performance and safety remain the primary drivers of investment choices. Additionally, the law outlines specific procedures for purchasing, selling, and safeguarding assets, requiring annual publication of investment policies and compliance with standard financial reporting guidelines.
Maddy summaryThis bill expands eligibility for a state homeownership savings program to include active-duty members of the uniformed services. Under the new rules, these service members can open savings accounts to build funds for home down payments and closing costs, provided they apply after their permanent change of station orders. The legislation also requires state officials to issue an annual report detailing the program's participation numbers, total contributions, and financial performance.