Sen. George Lang

Maddy summaryThis bill prohibits foreign nationals from directly or indirectly funding political campaigns, ballot issues, or election-related communications within the state. It also bars state political entities from accepting or using money from foreign nationals for these purposes and makes it illegal for anyone to knowingly help facilitate such transactions. Violations of these rules carry criminal penalties, including fines and potential jail time, with the attorney general responsible for investigating and prosecuting cases.

Maddy summaryHB 305 amends several Ohio Revised Code sections to update definitions and restrict how public funds can be used by local governments and legal aid organizations. The bill clarifies what constitutes a "political subdivision" and prohibits these entities from using taxpayer money to publish content that supports political candidates, promotes illegal activities, or engages in electioneering. Additionally, it limits legal aid funds to specific services for indigent clients and bars their use in criminal or fee-generating cases. The legislation also introduces new rules for public depositories, requiring them to notify governing boards if they are involved in federal regulatory corrective actions.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act, prohibits financial institutions in Ohio from requiring merchants to use special payment codes that identify them as firearms or ammunition retailers. It prevents banks and payment processors from refusing to process credit or debit card transactions solely because a merchant sells guns or ammo. While financial institutions can still decline transactions for fraud, legal compliance, or customer requests, the law specifically bars them from using merchant category codes to distinguish firearm sellers from other businesses. The bill also establishes enforcement measures where the Attorney General can issue notices and seek court injunctions against any entity that violates these privacy protections.

Maddy summarySB 89 ratifies the Cosmetology Licensure Compact, allowing Ohio-licensed cosmetologists to practice in other member states without obtaining separate licenses for each location. The bill establishes a multistate licensing system where professionals holding a single license in their home state can work across participating states while maintaining oversight from their original licensing authority. To ensure public safety, the compact includes provisions for sharing disciplinary records, conducting background checks, and setting uniform standards for competency exams and background investigations. This framework aims to increase workforce mobility and support military families who relocate frequently, while still protecting consumers through coordinated regulation among member states.

Maddy summaryThis bill allows local governments and school districts facing fiscal emergencies to hold special elections in August for specific offices, questions, or issues. It also permits the state to use an August special election to place statewide ballot measures on the ballot. The legislation requires these elections to follow the same deadlines as primary or general elections and assigns the full cost to the local political subdivision or taxing authority. Additionally, the bill includes funding provisions to reimburse election boards for conducting these special elections.