Sen. George Lang

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 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 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 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 amends state laws to clarify the authority of advanced practice registered nurses, specifically allowing them to provide medical certificates that justify the use of sick leave by public employees. It defines rape crisis programs and sexual assault for the purpose of creating a new trust fund to support victim services, while also updating sick leave policies for various public sector workers. The legislation ensures that unused sick leave can be carried over and transferred between agencies, and it permits appointing authorities to set alternative sick leave schedules under certain conditions. Additionally, the bill specifies that medical certification for sick leave may be provided by licensed physicians, certified nurse-midwives, clinical nurse specialists, or certified nurse practitioners.

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.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates October 9th as Rutherford B. Hayes Day to honor the 19th U.S. President. The legislation requires state agencies and officials to recognize this specific date, likely through proclamations or official acknowledgments. By establishing this commemorative day, the bill aims to increase public awareness of Hayes's historical contributions and legacy.

Maddy summarySB 336 expands Ohio's Ed Choice Scholarship Program to include students attending nonchartered nonpublic schools, alongside the existing option for chartered nonpublic schools. The bill requires these schools to annually assess reading skills for students in grades kindergarten through three and mandates that parents be notified if a third-grade student is identified as having a substantial deficiency in reading. If a student fails to meet the reading proficiency standard, the school must provide intensive reading instruction services and report data on student performance to the state department of education and workforce. Additionally, the legislation clarifies eligibility criteria for scholarships, linking them to students residing in low-performing school districts and ensuring that those who have received scholarships since 2020-2021 can continue until they complete high school.

Maddy summaryHB 81 designates specific sections of roads and a bridge across Ohio with new names to honor individuals who served in law enforcement, the military, and emergency services. The bill affects various counties by officially renaming highways such as State Route 39 in Carroll County to the "Sheriff Dale R. Williams Memorial Highway" and Interstate 77 in Akron to the "American Gold Star Mothers, Inc. Memorial Highway." Under this legislation, the state director of transportation is authorized to install physical markers along these routes to display the new commemorative titles. This measure serves as a formal recognition of public service rather than altering traffic laws or funding requirements.