Sen. Kent Smith

Maddy summarySB 253 designates February 20th as "Black Ohioan Civil War Medal of Honor Recipient Day" to commemorate a specific Black Ohioan who earned the Medal of Honor during the Civil War. The bill creates a formal, annual observance date in Ohio to honor this individual's military service and sacrifice. It does not create new laws, funding, or direct obligations, but rather establishes a ceremonial day of recognition. This designation applies statewide and aims to acknowledge a historically significant figure in Ohio's military history.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SR 257) is a ceremonial resolution formally recognizing Jonathan Thomas for his service as a sergeant-at-arms in the Ohio Senate since 2020. It does not create any new laws or policies; instead, it expresses the Senate's appreciation for his dedication and contributions to the Ohio General Assembly. The resolution commends his "loyal service," "civic concern," and "selfless initiative" and directs the Senate Clerk to send him a copy. As a symbolic gesture, it directly affects only Jonathan Thomas and has no legal or financial impact on other Ohio residents.

Maddy summarySR 255 is a ceremonial Senate Resolution honoring David Lee Wycuff, a former Ohio state employee who managed state buildings (including the Ohio Statehouse) and was active in his church community. The resolution, adopted on December 30, 2025, expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and commemorates his contributions to the Statehouse, his church, and his community. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it is a symbolic tribute with no legal effect. The resolution directs the Senate Clerk to send a copy to Wycuff's family.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution (SR 246), not a law with policy changes. It honors the Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine (OU HCOM) for its 50th anniversary. The resolution recognizes OU HCOM's role as Ohio's only osteopathic medical school, its expansion to multiple campuses, its graduation of over 5,000 physicians (60% remaining in Ohio to practice), and its status as the state's largest producer of primary care physicians. The Senate formally commends the college and transmits a copy of the resolution to the institution.

To amend sections 1509.03, 1509.22, 1509.222, 1509.223, 1509.224, 1509.33, and 1509.99 and to repeal section 1509.226 of the Revised Code to expressly prohibit the surface application of brine from oil and gas wells on roads.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 239) honoring Jim Kelly for his service to the Legislative Service Commission. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it solely serves to recognize Mr. Kelly's contributions. The resolution formally expresses appreciation for his work with the Commission, which supports legislative operations. No concrete policy changes or direct impacts on constituents are involved.

Maddy summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SR 226) honoring Zelda “Zettie” Zoe Keeran. It serves solely to memorialize her life and legacy without creating any new laws or affecting policies or individuals. The resolution has no legislative effect beyond recognition.

Maddy summarySB 16 amends Ohio's Revised Code (section 4511.213) to require drivers to change lanes or proceed with caution when approaching a stationary vehicle in distress on a roadway. This law directly affects all drivers traveling on roads where vehicles may be stopped due to mechanical issues or other emergencies. The key provision prohibits drivers from failing to take these actions, aiming to improve safety for both the stranded vehicle occupants and other road users. The change updates existing traffic law without introducing new penalties, applying to all public roadways in Ohio.

Honoring the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft on receiving the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.

To make an appropriation to continue to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families programs, and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children contingent upon a lapse in federal funding.