LaRose Seeks to Further Streamline Ohio’s Regulatory System

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COLUMBUS — Looking to build on the progress made in the 129th General Assembly, Ohio Senator Frank LaRose (R- Copley) today introduced legislation that aims to take the next steps in reforming Ohio’s regulatory structure, easing the burden on employers so Ohio families can prosper.

“Outdated and inefficient regulations continue to stifle business growth in our state. We have made progress in the past two years as we work together to create a pro-business environment in Ohio, but there is clearly more improvement needed,” LaRose said. “This bill will help maintain the important protections provided by effective regulation while at the same time ensuring that entrepreneurs can continue to invest here and create opportunities for Ohioans.”

The bill is the result of suggestions from the 2008 Regulatory Reform Task Force as well as good ideas from both members and staff of the Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR). JCARR is comprised of members of both the Senate and House and is responsible for reviewing administrative rules proposed by state agencies, departments, boards and commissions. LaRose currently serves as a member of JCARR and chaired the committee last year.

The measure, Senate Bill 3, seeks to increase input by stakeholders and the public in the rule-making process by establishing a web site that will notify users about rule filings, changes and public hearing opportunities. The site will also allow users to receive notifications on rules that impact specific subjects or industries. It also allows JCARR to refer proposed or existing rules to the Common Sense Initiative Office, which reviews rules to determine if they have an adverse business impact, and requires statewide office holders to comply with the business review provisions when establishing new rules. Finally, the bill requires fines levied to be paid into the state’s General Revenue Fund rather than the enforcing agency’s budget.

LaRose also introduced several other measures today. Senate Bill 8 would make military spouses eligible for unemployment compensation if they must leave their job in order to accompany their spouse for an assignment. Endorsed by the U.S. Department of Defense and the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, this change will help support military families throughout the state. He also reintroduced a joint resolution that changes the process by which Ohio draws its legislative and Congressional districts. The plan received overwhelming bipartisan support in the Senate last year.