Sen. Kent Smith

To amend sections 5747.08 and 5747.98 and to enact section 5747.87 of the Revised Code to authorize a refundable income tax credit or rebate for homeowners and renters whose property taxes or a portion of their rent exceed five per cent of their income.

To amend section 3501.01 of the Revised Code to require a presidential primary election to be held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in May.

To amend sections 3109.51, 3109.52, 3109.53, 3109.54, 3109.59, 3109.60, 3109.65, 3109.66, 3109.67, 3109.69, 3109.70, 3109.71, 3109.74, 3109.76, 3310.51, 3313.64, 3313.649, and 3313.672 of the Revised Code to expand who is eligible to execute a grandparent power of attorney or a caretaker authorization affidavit.

Maddy summarySB 30 requires in-person retail merchants to accept cash payments when offered, without banning cash or mandating credit use. It applies to physical stores and services but excludes online, phone, or mail transactions. Key exemptions include airports (with at least two cash-accepting food vendors), municipal parking facilities, mobile-only payment parking, car rentals accepting certified checks, large venues (10,000+ seats), and prepaid card systems meeting specific fee-free conditions. Violations are treated as unfair business practices, allowing customers to seek legal remedies.

To enact section 2307.56 of the Revised Code to provide for a reasonable expectation test in determining liability for injury caused by consumption of food containing a substance injurious to health and for the jury to make that determination.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SR 4), not a policy bill. The Ohio Senate adopted it on January 13, 2025, to honor Ben Espy, a former Columbus City Council member and Ohio State Senator who served for two decades. The resolution recognizes his career as an attorney, public servant, and community leader, including his work with the Columbus Youth Corps and MLK Holiday Celebration. It expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and commemorates his contributions to Ohio.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 5) honoring Phil Cummins upon his retirement from the Ohio Legislative Service Commission (LSC). It recognizes his 21-year tenure as a senior economist and nonpartisan resource for Ohio legislators, highlighting his contributions to drafting, research, and fiscal analysis. The resolution formally praises his dedication, leadership, and service to the LSC, which supports all members of the Ohio General Assembly. It does not create any new laws or policies.

Maddy summaryThis bill is a Senate resolution honoring Senator Robert D. Hackett for his distinguished service to the Ohio Senate. It recognizes his contributions through various committee roles and his dedication to public service, noting his bipartisan respect among colleagues. The resolution formally applauds his tenure and directs the Senate Clerk to send an authenticated copy of the document to Senator Hackett.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires the director of commerce to create a poster detailing various benefits and services available to veterans, such as mental health support, tax exemptions, and educational resources. Employers in the state are permitted to display this poster in a visible area where all employees can access it, and the director will provide copies to businesses free of charge. The legislation aims to increase awareness of veteran support programs by making this information readily available in the workplace.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes the New African Immigrants Grant and Gift Fund within the state treasury to manage financial contributions specifically designated for new African immigrants. The fund will be financed through grants, gifts, and legislative appropriations, with any investment earnings automatically added to the balance. The New African Immigrants Commission is authorized to use these resources to support its official duties and operations.