Faber Out for OH-08

Good news for Roger Reynolds as another big name drops out of the race to replace Boehner in OH-08.

Senate President Keith Faber will not run.  He's got his eye on a statewide race.  Probably Attorney General (if he can DeRINO Dave Yost -- it worked once.....) or Auditor (if he can't).

He didn't live in the district anyway.

SIDEBAR: From that article linked above: "DeWine may seek the governor’s office."  Oh, HELL NO...  If there is one thing we can count on, it's Jon Husted's ambition.  There is NO WAY Jonny misses his chance again.  Also hearing that Mary Taylor might want to run for governor assuming she's learned how to campaign...  Anyway...

STATEMENT: Senate President Faber on College Affordability and Efficiency

COLUMBUS - Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) issued the following statement in response to the report released today by the Governor's Task Force on College Affordability and Efficiency: 

"I'm encouraged by the work this task force was able to accomplish in identifying opportunities for our universities and colleges to reduce costs for students.

"College affordability continues to be a major priority of the Ohio Senate, and these recommendations today reflect the commitment of both university and legislative leadership to relieve the financial burden of a college tuition through increased efficiency and productivity in our institutions.

"I appreciate the time, expertise and focus that my fellow task force members devoted to this study. I look forward to working with our colleges and universities as we review and implement changes to help our students obtain an affordable, quality education and be successful as they enter the workforce."

The Boehner Circus

The List (via Cincinnati Enquirer) is long and getting longer...

• Sheriff Richard "Spotlight" Jones - Get serious...
• Bill Coley - The former state representative topped insiders' lists for who might run...He didn't respond Friday to requests for comment."
• Tim Derickson - Term limited in Ohio House - "I in no way could have anticipated this possibility, but now that it is an open seat, I'm seriously considering a run for that seat."
• Ross MacGregor - "Some people label me 'liberal.' I prefer 'moderate."
• Kieth Faber - Lives outside the district - "A spokesman for Faber declined to comment."
• J.D. Winteregg - "I'm not afraid to confront people on different issues, and that's what the Republican Party needs."
• Wes Retherford - "I really haven't had a chance to collect my thoughts."
• Seth Morgan - "I don't know if I'm ready to say one way or the other."
• Chris Widener
• Bill Beagle - Just announced he's in today.
• Roger Reynolds - "At this point, that's not something I'm prepared to talk about." - 9/30 UPDATE: He's in.  Everybody else should drop out.  This is the guy!
• Joe Deters - Lives outside the district - "No chance"
• Not in the Enquirer article, but heard elsewhere: Steve Austria

Even though it is not a requirement for Congressman to live in the districts they represent,. I --and many people who still live in the district-- prefer that they do.  That will eliminate a few from the list.

Keep an eye on Coley.  Once he makes his decision, that will determine who stays and who goes.

I fully expect the Ohio Republican Party to try and push Faber on to the scene.  Expect the people in the district to tell the party to get bent.  Pound sand.  Go away.  But they'll try it anyway.

Derickson should get in because after having developed so far as a legislator, it would be a shame to waste the talent.

Spotlight and Winteregg will provide all of the comedy...

I picked a fabulous time to return to blogging......

RELEASE: Faber Announces Effort to Redirect Taxpayer Dollars Away from Abortion Providers

COLUMBUS - Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today the introduction of legislation that would divert public funding away from any entity associated with performing non-therapeutic abortions in Ohio.

This legislation follows recently released videos that show officials at Planned Parenthood seeking to profit off of the sale of body parts of unborn children. The investigation, initiated by the Center for Medical Progress, displayed Planned Parenthood officials negotiating the sale of body parts from unborn babies as well as describing the process in which body parts could be harvested once a deal was agreed upon.

"The recent developments regarding Planned Parenthood are disturbing and quite frankly inexcusable," said Faber. "The practices outlined in these videos are not only reprehensible but also illegal under Ohio law, and this bill will ensure that public money is not funding such activities."

The proposed legislation would divert public funds in Ohio away from entities that:

1. Perform non-therapeutic abortions
2. Promote non-therapeutic abortions
3. Have a contract with any entity that performs or promotes non-therapeutic abortions
4. Become or continue to be an affiliate of any entity that performs or promotes non-therapeutic abortions

The state of Ohio gave $1.3 million in taxpayer dollars to Planned Parenthood alone in 2014. Pending passage of this legislation, this funding could be diverted to the more than 300 alternative health care providers in Ohio as well as the 50 Community Action Agencies across the state.

"It is our intention to use these public funds to provide family planning services and comprehensive healthcare to women and children in Ohio," said Faber.

The FY 2016-17 state budget sustained funding to vital women's health services such as breast and cervical cancer screenings at alternative clinics that to do not provide abortions. Currently, none of the twenty-five Planned Parenthood clinics in Ohio provide prenatal care or mammograms. According to Planned Parenthood’s Annual Report, 94% of their services to pregnant women are abortions.

St. Sen. LaRose Announces Historic Tax Cut, Largest Investment in Public Education in a Decade

Release:

COLUMBUS– Senator Frank LaRose (R– Copley) today announced the passage of House Bill 59, the state’s two-year operating budget. The bill contains as its cornerstones one of the largest single-year tax cuts in Ohio’s history as well as the largest legislative investment in public education in more than 10 years.

“Our state economy is finally moving in the right direction - in fact we currently lead the nation in job creation. By working together we’ve come a long way in the last two years, but there’s more work to do. We must keep Ohio moving in the right direction and this budget does just that.” said LaRose. “Today we passed a budget that allows hard working Ohioans to keep more of what they earned, with perhaps that largest tax cut in state history; invests in our future by providing the largest increase to K-12 public education funding in more than a decade; and fully funds the Clean Ohio program to preserve and protect Ohio’s precious parks and natural environment. All of this is much more accomplished while providing a responsible and balanced budget to efficiently fund Ohio’s essential government operations. As with any human endeavor, no piece of legislation is perfect; certainly there are areas where I would have preferred a different approach. That said, this budget is the product of more than six months of collaborative hard work, reflecting the diverse voices of this great state. I was proud to support this budget today so that together we can continue to grow our state and keep our Ohio moving in the right direction.”

The bill authorizes $2.7 billion in tax cuts, which includes a 10 percent income tax cut over the next three years. The bill also delivers much-needed tax relief for Ohio’s small businesses through a 50 percent cut on the first $250,000 of net business income. Small businesses comprise 98 percent of the state’s employers and employ approximately 47 percent of all Ohioans.

In addition to enacting tax relief that is vital in keeping our economy healthy and growing, the bill also works to modernize and streamline the state’s outdated and complicated tax code and establish a fairer and more comprehensible system that promotes job growth. To do this, the bill eliminates many exemptions, credits and loopholes. The plan works to shift the state away from its current reliance on income taxes toward a structure that relies more heavily on consumption taxes.

The proposal, which will become law with the Governor’s signature, also contains a $717 million increase in spending on primary and secondary education, the largest legislative investment in public schools in more than a decade. The bill also includes $250 million for the newly created “Straight-A Fund,” which provides grants to promote innovation in our schools and efficiency in district operations and more than $78 million to support important early childhood education programs.

The higher education plan instituted by House Bill 59 is a model for the nation that focuses on graduation and degree completion, not simply student enrollment. The plan also serves Ohio’s rising student population by establishing a 2% cap on tuition increases at all of Ohio’s public universities. Over the past 5 years, Ohio has had the second lowest tuition increases for public universities.

Additional Provisions Include:

Local Governments: Distributes an estimated $27.6 billion in state aid to local governments and school districts over the next two years. 85% of dollars collected by the state are passed along to local schools, governments, and community programs.

Reforming Workers Compensation: Reduces BWC payments by 2% for private employers and 4% for public employers as responsible management has created stable fund balances. The bureau will also be empowered to reform its payment system to save Ohio employers $900 million.

Investing in Our Workforce: Provides $1 million to train workers in the bioscience manufacturing industry by partnering with community colleges. An additional $2 million will be appropriated to create training programs that will prepare Ohio workers for growing jobs in the oil & natural gas industry.

Supporting Wellness & Safety:

Drug & Alcohol Treatment: Invests $100 million in drug and alcohol treatment, and mental health services, including a $5 million pilot project to deal with convicts’ drug addictions after release from prison in an effort to slow recidivism rates and drug use simultaneously.

Developmentally Disabled: Provides $5.4 million for home healthcare services for developmentally disabled Ohioans.

Other Important Programs:

TourismOhio: Increases funding by 14%, making $8 million available each year to support and grow the state’s tourism industry.

Hispanic & Latino Affairs: Invests an additional 19% in fiscal year 2015 to help serve Ohio’s fastest-growing demographic population.

Human Trafficking: Transfers more than $500,000 to the Highway Patrol for equipment to scan commercial trucks to better detect trafficking victims.

UPDATE: Additional quotes:

“This budget is the second chapter in a story about Ohio’s recovery. The last budget put us on track and this budget continues that progress and keeps us moving forward,” said Faber. “This is a budget about every Ohioan and giving every Ohioan the opportunity to succeed. Our focus in the legislature has been creating an environment where the economy can grow, we can create jobs, and we can educate our workforce. This budget prioritizes Ohio’s resources to do just that.”

“This budget is all about increasing opportunity, growing our economy, and making sure that all Ohioans are able to find work,” said Finance Chairman Scott Oelslager (R–North Canton). “Our plan gives a 50% tax cut for our small businesses to boost job creation and a 10% income tax cut for all Ohioans so that everyone can keep more of their hard earned money.”

Senate President Faber Announces Legislation to Ban Internet Cafés

Release:

(Columbus) – Ohio Senate President Keith Faber announced today that legislators will take immediate action to ban Internet cafés in the state of Ohio.

“In the last 24 hours, my caucus received briefings from law enforcement officials, and we’ve been given enough information at this point to make an informed decision about how to proceed,” Faber said. “I am convinced that these entities are not only illegal but that many of them also engage in criminal activity within their facilities. Ohioans did not contemplate this kind of unregulated activity when they voted to approve gaming in this state, so the time to act is now.”

Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine, Public Safety Director Tom Charles and Franklin County Prosecutor Ron O’Brien joined Faber for the announcement. Faber added that he will personally introduce on Thursday a moratorium bill that immediately halts the expansion of Internet cafes. The bill contains an emergency clause that, with the governor’s signature, makes it effective immediately.

“The moratorium requires all operators to file new affidavits on a form prescribed by the attorney general,” he said. “Failure to properly comply will carry penalties of up to $1,000 per day and other potential sanctions.”

The moratorium is necessary because an existing moratorium on Internet café expansion expires in June.

Faber also announced that senators would immediately begin work on House Bill 7, the legislation that would enact a ban on Internet café operations in Ohio. He added that his goal is to move the legislation in May.

MATT'S CHAT: Because Ohio is business friendly.....

Senate President Faber Announces Medicaid Reform Initiative

Release:

(Columbus) – Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today the appointment of a Medicaid reform task force led by Senator Dave Burke (R-Marion).

“The House has indicated they don’t have the votes to get the governor’s Medicaid proposal done in the budget,” said Faber. “Therefore, I do not believe that issue is on the table as it relates to this legislation. That is not to say we are ending the discussion. My caucus wants to look at Medicaid reform in a comprehensive way outside of the complexities of the budget. This issue has a significant financial impact on the state, and we need to understand every intended and unintended consequence before we make any commitments.”

Faber added that any Medicaid proposal must include flexibility from the federal government and systemic reform, including cost and accountability controls. He said the Senate would work in concert with the Ohio House and the Kasich administration to explore reform in a stand-alone bill.

“We believe there is a path to Medicaid reform that covers the people who need it in the short term, while reducing costs in the long term. We want to achieve an outcome that addresses the concerns expressed on all sides of this debate.”

Burke added, “Over the next several weeks, the Senate will be talking with constituents and interest groups about Ohio’s Medicaid program. Our work will involve multiple stakeholders, including the Governor’s Office of Health Transformation, and our goal is to improve the Medicaid program for the lives we serve and the taxpayers who pay the bills.”

Burke announced the following seven objectives for his task force:

Establish firm annual per member, per month spending targets
Establish performance measures and targets that focus more on outcomes not outputs
Increase consumer involvement in the delivery of Medicaid services
Remove costly legislative mandates that prohibit innovation and flexibility
Streamline legislative oversight
Invest in research and evaluation for Medicaid and the entire health care system in Ohio
Eliminate statutory regulations that impede the cost-effective delivery of health care in Ohio

The task force will begin its work immediately.

MATT'S CHAT: I don't know why we need a committee to JUST SAY NO! The hospital lobbying special interest groups must be dropping serious coins on these guys...let's see who gets bought...

$7.6 Billion State Transportation Budget Clears Ohio Senate

Release:

COLUMBUS– This afternoon, the Ohio Senate lent its approval to House Bill 51, which appropriates more than $7.6 billion to fund the Ohio Departments of Transportation and Public Safety over the coming biennium.

“As we continue our work to put Ohio’s economy back on the right track, the Senate can be proud of this budget, which implements new, innovative ideas to improve Ohio’s infrastructure and create jobs all over our state,” said President Faber (R–Celina). “Through the Turnpike plan alone, we are expecting to create 65,000 jobs across the state of Ohio, which builds upon the work the Senate has already done to make job creation the state’s number-one priority.”

In addition to the budget appropriations, the Senate approved a plan that will allow $1.5 billion in bonds to be issued on the Ohio Turnpike. Combined with federal and local matching funds, this money will contribute extensively to infrastructure projects in northern Ohio and across the state. The additional funding will increase the priority level of many highway projects. Some projects that were not expected until 2025 will be given immediate consideration.

“House Bill 51 is arguably one of the greatest jobs budgets we will pass this General Assembly,” said State Senator Gayle Manning (R–North Ridgeville), who presides as Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee. “As we invest in our infrastructure, we do more than build better roads, we create a pathway for new businesses, we employ construction workers, and we contribute to the health of Ohio’s improving economy.”

The bill received bipartisan support in the Senate with Transportation Committee Ranking Minority Member Senator Capri Cafaro (D–Hubbard) saying that the legislation “does the responsible thing” on the Nexus Provision, which ensures that 90 percent of the funds raised through the bonding of the Ohio Turnpike will be used within 75 miles of the Turnpike.

Among the bill's provisions:

Permitting the bonding of the Ohio Turnpike up to $1.5 billion
The Nexus provision, which ensures that 90 percent of the money raised through turnpike bonding will be spent on northern Ohio projects
Increases the highway speed limit in Ohio to 70 miles per hour, outside of urban areas
Lowers the late fee for vehicle registration from $20 to $10.
Allows for the multi-year registration of certain vehicles
Requires a stop sign at all railroad crossings where passive warning devices (lights or gates) do not exist

Ohio Seante President Faber Announces Senate’s First 10 Policy Initiatives

Release:

COLUMBUS– Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R–Celina) today rolled out the top initiatives that the Senate Majority will champion during the 130th General Assembly. The first legislative priorities include ten initial bills and one joint resolution.

“Though Ohio has built great momentum for job creation and a robust economy, there is still much left to do,” added Faber. “Our top priority remains unchanged as we find new, innovative ways to train the state’s workforce and pair Ohio job-seekers with opportunity right here in the Buckeye State.”

The newly elected Senate President offered assurances that the Senate Majority remains staunchly committed to job creation and workforce development in the 130th General Assembly.

“Over the past two years, we’ve made substantial progress in the Statehouse in creating a more efficient, more accountable state government,” said Faber. “Our work has paid off in the form of a budget surplus, an improved state credit outlook, and more than 120,000 new jobs for hard working Ohioans.”

The first Senate bills of the 130th General Assembly are as follows:

Senate Bill 1 – Workforce Development Revolving Loan Fund: Jointly sponsored by Senators Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City) and Troy Balderson (R–Zanesville), this bill uses $25 million in existing casino licensure fees to establish a revolving job training and education loan program to help Ohioans retool their skills and qualify them for expanding job opportunities.

Senate Bill 2 – Workforce Development Improvement Act: This legislation, jointly sponsored by Senators Peggy Lehner (R–Kettering) and Bill Beagle (R–Tipp City), partners the 90 different county “One-Stop” locations with the statewide OhioMeansJobs initiative to improve job training and placement programs. The OhioMeansJobs website currently has approximately 100,000 job listings.

Senate Bill 3 – Job Creation Empowerment Act: Sponsored by State Senator Frank LaRose (R–Copley), this legislation continues efforts to make Ohio a more attractive place to locate or expand jobs by ensuring that state regulations are regularly reviewed to eliminate unnecessary red tape. Specifically, the bill creates a “Rule Watch” system to make it easier for Ohioans and employers to be notified when a rule affecting them is up for review. It also authorizes the creation of a pilot program identifying three to five entrepreneurs annually to assist state agencies in strengthening coordination with small business employers.

Senate Bill 4 – Newborn Healthy Hearts Bill: This bill, supported by the Ohio Heart Association, ensures that all newborns receive a non-invasive pulse oximetry screening to identify congenital heart defects early. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common birth defect in the United States and the leading cause of birth-defect related deaths. This legislation is jointly sponsored by Senators Gayle Manning (R–North Ridgeville) and Scott Oelslager (R–North Canton).

Senate Bill 5 – Kelsey’s Law: Jointly sponsored by Senators Edna Brown (D–Toledo) and Gayle Manning (R–North Ridgeville), Senate Bill 5 allows law enforcement officers access to call location information, including GPS tracking, for a missing, abducted person. The bill is named after Kelsey Smith, an abducted and murdered Kansas teenager who might have been located sooner had legal questions not delayed investigators from obtaining cell data.

Senate Bill 6 – Fiscal Officer Integrity Act: At the recommendation of State Auditor Dave Yost, the bill, sponsored by Senator Tim Schaffer (R–Lancaster), establishes continuing education requirements for township and municipal fiscal officers to ensure the protection of public funds and the effective management of tax dollars. It also establishes a standard by which a fiscal officer can be removed from office when they betray the public’s trust.

Senate Bill 7 – Law Enforcement Protection Act: Sponsored by Senators Bill Beagle (R-Tipp City) and Chris Widener (R-Springfield), this bill requires courts to notify law enforcement officers of violent offenders who are sentenced to mental health treatment rather than incarceration. The information is essential to protecting officers who could potentially encounter these offenders during an investigation. The legislation was prompted by the death of a Clark County deputy sheriff who was shot and killed by an offender on conditional release.

Senate Bill 8 – Military Employment Assistance Bill: As part of Ohio’s commitment to supporting military families, this bill, sponsored by Senator Frank LaRose (R–Copley), modifies Ohio law to offer unemployment benefits to individuals who have become unemployed due to their military spouse’s relocation or deployment.

Senate Bill 9 – Health Insurance Accountability Act: Sponsored by Senator Kevin Bacon (R–Minerva Township), this bill adopts accountability standards and restrictions for federally mandated health insurance advisors. These “navigators” act as insurance agents who aid in searching and purchasing insurance under the federally mandated health insurance exchange.

Senate Bill 10 – Polling Access & Integrity Act: Sponsored by Senator Bill Coley (R–Liberty Township), this elections reform bill improves access to polling locations for disabled Ohioans. The proposed law also ensures that journalists have “reasonable access” to a polling location and clarifies that a person in line when a polling location closes is entitled to cast a ballot.

In addition to the introduction of the Senate’s first ten bills, President Faber announced that the Senate would renew its consideration of a bipartisan redistricting reform plan. Senate Joint Resolution 1 mirrors a resolution adopted by the Senate last December with a vote of 32-1. It asks Ohio voters to approve or deny an improved, bipartisan process for redrawing state and congressional district lines.

Ohio Senate Committee Chairs Announce School Safety Hearing Schedule

Release:

STATEHOUSE- Senate Education Chair Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering) and Senate Public Safety, Local Government & Veterans Affairs Chair Frank LaRose (R-Copley) today announced the schedule for the Senate school safety hearings. The panel will be comprised of both of the Senate Standing Committees chaired by Senators Lehner and LaRose.

The joint hearings were announced on January 30, 2013 by Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina). You can view President Faber's announcement here.

The schedule will be as follows:

Hearings focusing on prevention and mental health will be chaired by Senator Lehner. The hearings will be held at the following times:

February 12, 2013 at 7:00pm
February 26, 2013 at 7:00pm

Hearings focusing on security, school infrastructure, law enforcement response, training, and all aspects pertaining to protection will be chaired by Senator LaRose. The hearings will be held at the following times:

March 5, 2013 at 7:00pm
March 12, 2013 at 7:00pm

Professionals in the fields of education, public safety, and mental health as well as parents and all interested Ohioans are encouraged to participate and share ideas. The committee is seeking the input from a wide range of individuals who would like to share their ideas and expertise. If you would like to participate in the hearings, or if you would simply like to share your ideas, you can contact SchoolSafety@OhioSenate.gov or join the conversation on Twitter by using hashtag #OHSafeSchools.

All hearings will be held in the Senate Finance Hearing Room. Audio and video recording as well as photography will be permitted at the discretion of the Co-Chairs. Please contact their offices prior to the hearing.

Ohio Senate President Faber Announces Joint Committee on School Safety

Release:

(Columbus) - Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) today announced the establishment of a joint committee to address school safety and the prevention of violent acts in public spaces.

The bipartisan Committee on Safe and Secure Schools will include members of the Senate Public Safety and Education committees and will be co-chaired by Senator Frank LaRose (R-Copley Twp) and Senator Peggy Lehner (R-Kettering).

“Our only agenda is to make sure our children are as safe as they can be and that we deter those who have violent intentions,” said President Faber. “This committee will engage safety experts and the public in a thoughtful discussion to find reasonable solutions to the problem of violence in public spaces.”

The recent mass violence incidents in places such as Chardon, Ohio, Newtown, Connecticut, and Aurora, Colorado have heightened awareness of the need to protect our communities and recognize the warning signs of potential danger. The committee will take a broad approach and discuss issues including mental health standards, successful programs on bullying, and safety plans for first responders.

“This committee will have two priorities – protection and prevention,” said Senator LaRose. “We want to make schools a safe place to learn and ensure professionals have the tools they need to identify those likely to commit offenses.”

Senator Lehner says mental health will be a major focus of the committee. “We hope to better identify the potential for this type of violent act and get help for those at risk,” said Lehner. “This is a very challenging and complicated issue, but there is a very strong will within the Senate to tackle the problem.”

The Committee will announce meeting dates within the next few days, as well as opportunities for the general public to provide feedback and ideas to the committee.

Senate President Releases Statement on the State of the State

Release:

COLUMBUS– Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R–Celina) issued the following statement today regarding Governor John Kasich's request to deliver his State of the State address in Lima:

"So much of our government is centered in Columbus, and I think it's great that we're using this unique event to put a spotlight on the rest of our state. I'm especially honored to host the governor and my legislative colleagues in Lima, one of the economic hubs of my district. We've got a great story to tell, and I know Governor Kasich has an incredible record and vision to share in this important address. This is how government 'of the people' should work."

Ohio Senate President Keith Faber Announces Senior Staff

Release:

COLUMBUS – Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today his senior staff for the 130th General Assembly.

“I have the privilege of working with the most talented and experienced legislative staff in the nation,” said Faber. “They not only help us craft important public policy, but they also manage a complex network of offices and services that impact millions of Ohioans every day. More importantly, they provide our members with invaluable institutional knowledge in an era of term limits. I’m grateful for their commitment to our members and, more importantly, to the people of Ohio.”

Jason Mauk will continue to serve as Chief of Staff, advising the President and overseeing the administration of the Senate’s 33 member offices and more than 100 employees. He previously served as Chief of Staff to Senate President Tom Niehaus.

Liz Connolly has been named Senior Advisor to the President in addition to her duties as Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy & Administration. She will advise the President and Chief of Staff on strategic policy initiatives, as well as oversee the daily management of majority caucus operations. She has served in the Senate for 27 years.

Brian Perera has been named Deputy Chief of Staff for Budget and Finance. He will serve as the Senate President’s chief financial officer, as well as advising the chairman of the Finance Committee and overseeing the development and analysis of all Senate fiscal policy. He has served in the Senate for 22 years.

Angelika McClelland will continue to serve as Special Assistant to the President and Director of Constituent Services. She will manage the President’s appointments to state boards and commissions, as well as oversee special projects, member support, employee training programs and constituent engagement efforts.

Vincent Keeran will continue to serve as Clerk of the Senate, managing the chamber’s operating budget, payroll, human resources, office infrastructure and record-keeping obligations under the direction of the Chief of Staff. He has been Senate clerk since 2007.

Frank Strigari will continue to serve as the Chief Counsel to the Senate President, advising the majority caucus on all legal issues, including policy development, ethics law compliance, parliamentary procedure and administrative rules. He will also assist the Senate’s civil and criminal justice committee chairs.

John McClelland has been named Director of Communications and Public Affairs. He previously served as Press Secretary for the Senate Majority Caucus before directing a private sector public affairs firm. In addition to assisting with policy development, he will manage all external communications and messaging strategies, including media relations, digital media platforms, coalition outreach and public liaison.

Ohio Senate President Announces Committee Membership

Release:

COLUMBUS – Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today the membership of each of the Senate’s standing committees for the 130th General Assembly.

Agriculture
Chair: Sen. Cliff Hite
Vice Chair: Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. David Burke
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Gayle Manning
Sen. Bob Peterson
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Lou Gentile
Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Shirley Smith

Energy & Natural Resources
Chair: Sen. Troy Balderson
Vice Chair: Sen. Kris Jordan
Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Bob Peterson
Sen. Tim Schaffer
Sen. Joe Uecker
Ranking Minority Member Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Lou Gentile

Public Utilities
Chair: Sen. Bill Seitz
Vice Chair: Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Shannon Jones
Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Joe Uecker
Ranking Minority Member Sen. Lou Gentile
Sen. Tom Sawyer
Sen. Shirley Smith
Sen. Capri Cafaro

Education
Chair: Sen. Peggy Lehner
Vice Chair: Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. Bill Beagle
Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Gayle Manning
Ranking Minority Member Sen. Tom Sawyer
Sen. Nina Turner
Sen. Joe Schiavoni

Workforce & Economic Development
Chair: Sen. Bill Beagle
Vice Chair: Sen. Gayle Manning
Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Peggy Lehner
Sen. Tim Schaffer
Sen. Chris Widener
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Charleta Tavares
Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Michael Skindell

Transportation
Chair: Sen. Gayle Manning
Vice Chair: Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Bill Seitz
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Lou Gentile
Sen. Nina Turner

Public Safety, Local Government & Veterans Affairs
Chair: Sen. Frank LaRose
Vice Chair: Sen. Jim Hughes
Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. Kris Jordan
Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Tim Schaffer
Sen. Joe Uecker
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Michael Skindell
Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Charleta Tavares

State Government Oversight & Reform
Chair: Sen. David Burke
Vice Chair: Sen. Joe Uecker
Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Bill Seitz
Sen. Chris Widener
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Shirley Smith
Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Michael Skindell

Criminal Justice
Chair: Sen. John Eklund
Vice Chair: Sen. Bill Seitz
Sen. Jim Hughes
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Peggy Lehner
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Tim Schaffer
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Tom Sawyer
Sen. Shirley Smith

Civil Justice
Chair: Sen. Bill Coley
Vice Chair: Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Scott Oelslager
Sen. Bill Seitz
Sen. Joe Uecker
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Michael Skindell
Sen. Nina Turner

Commerce & Labor
Chair: Sen. Kevin Bacon
Vice Chair: Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Shannon Jones
Sen. Kris Jordan
Sen. Scott Oelslager
Sen. Bill Seitz
Sen. Joe Uecker
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Nina Turner

Ways & Means
Chair: Sen. Tim Schaffer
Vice Chair: Sen. Bob Peterson
Sen. Bill Beagle
Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Chris Widener
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Charleta Tavares
Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Michael Skindell

Medicaid, Health & Human Services
Chair: Sen. Shannon Jones
Vice Chair: Sen. David Burke
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Kris Jordan
Sen. Peggy Lehner
Sen. Scott Oelslager
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Charletta Tavares

Insurance & Financial Institutions
Chair: Sen. Jim Hughes
Vice Chair: Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. Bill Beagle
Sen. David Burke
Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Shannon Jones
Sen. Gayle Manning
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Bob Peterson
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Nina Turner
Sen. Lou Gentile
Sen. Michael Skindell
Sen. Edna Brown

Rules
Chair: Sen. Keith Faber
Vice Chair: Sen. Chris Widener
Sen. David Burke
Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. Jim Hughes
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Scott Oelslager
Sen. Tom Patton
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Eric H. Kearney
Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Nina Turner
Sen. Edna Brown

Reference
Chair: Sen. Kris Jordan
Vice Chair: Sen. Scott Oelslager
Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Chris Widener
Sen. Keith Faber
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Eric H. Kearney
Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Lou Gentile

Finance
Chair: Sen. Scott Oelslager
Vice Chair: Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. David Burke
Sen. Randy Gardner
Sen. Jim Hughes
Sen. Shannon Jones
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Tom Patton
Sen. Bob Peterson
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Tom Sawyer
Sen. Shirley Smith
Sen. Charleta Tavares
Sen. Joe Schiavoni

Finance Sub-Committee on Education
Chair: Sen. Randy Gardner
Vice Chair: Sen. Peggy Lehner
Sen. Bill Beagle
Sen. Cliff Hite
Sen. Jim Hughes
Sen. Gayle Manning
Sen. Joe Uecker
Sen. Chris Widener
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Nina Turner
Sen. Michael Skindell
Sen. Tom Sawyer

Finance Sub-Committee on General Government
Chair: Sen. Bob Peterson
Vice Chair: Sen. Tim Schaffer
Sen. Troy Balderson
Sen. John Eklund
Sen. Larry Obhof
Sen. Bill Seitz
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Joe Schiavoni
Sen. Lou Gentile
Sen. Shirley Smith

Finance Sub-Committee on Medicaid
Chair: Sen. David Burke
Vice Chair: Sen. Shannon Jones
Sen. Kevin Bacon
Sen. Bill Coley
Sen. Kris Jordan
Sen. Frank LaRose
Sen. Tom Patton
Ranking Minority Member: Sen. Capri Cafaro
Sen. Edna Brown
Sen. Charleta Tavares

About Senate Committees: Senate committees are a critical part of the legislative process and function as the second consideration required of a bill before it can become law. Following a bill’s introduction, it is assigned to one of the Senate’s standing committees. During committee meetings, bills are debated and amended, and members of the general public are given the opportunity to contribute testimonies. Weekly committee schedules are posted on the Ohio Senate’s website, in the Senate Clerk’s office and in the hall outside the Senate Chamber. For more information, visit http://www.ohiosenate.gov/senate2012/committee/about-committees.

Ohio Senate President Announces Committee Chairmanships

Release:

COLUMBUS – Ohio Senate President Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today the Chairs and Vice Chairs of the Senate’s standing committees for the 130th General Assembly. Below is a listing for each committee. Membership will be announced on January 9.

Standing Committees of the 130th GA:

Agriculture
Chair: Sen. Cliff Hite (R-Findlay) | Vice Chair: Sen. Troy Balderson (R-Zanesville)

Energy & Natural Resources
Chair: Sen. Troy Balderson | Vice Chair: Sen. Kris Jordan (R-Ostrander)

Public Utilities
Chair: Sen. Bill Seitz (R-Cincinnati) | Vice Chair: Sen. Frank LaRose (R-Copley)

Workforce & Economic Development
Chair: Sen. Bill Beagle (R-Tipp City) | Vice Chair: Sen. Gayle Manning (R-North Ridgeville)

Transportation
Chair: Sen. Gayle Manning | Vice Chair: Sen. Tom Patton (R-Strongsville)

Public Safety, Local Government & Veterans Affairs
Chair: Sen. Frank LaRose | Vice Chair: Sen. Jim Hughes (R-Columbus)

State Government Oversight & Reform
Chair: Sen. David Burke (R-Marysville) | Vice Chair: Sen. Joe Uecker (R-Miami Township)

Criminal Justice
Chair: Sen. John Eklund (R-Munson Township) | Sen. Bill Seitz

Civil Justice
Chair: Sen. Bill Coley (R-Liberty Township) | Vice Chair: Sen. Larry Obhof (R-Medina)

Commerce & Labor
Chair: Sen. Kevin Bacon (R-Minerva Park) | Vice Chair: Sen. John Eklund

Ways & Means
Chair: Sen. Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) | Vice Chair: Sen. Bob Peterson (R-Sabina)

Medicaid, Health & Human Services
Chair: Sen. Shannon Jones (R-Springboro) | Sen. David Burke

Insurance & Financial Institutions
Chair: Sen. Jim Hughes | Vice Chair: Sen. Kevin Bacon

Rules
Chair: Sen. Keith Faber (R-Celina) | Vice Chair: Sen. Chris Widener (R-Springfield)

Reference
Chair: Sen. Kris Jordan | Vice Chair: Sen. Scott Oelslager (R-North Canton)

Finance
Chair: Sen. Scott Oelslager | Vice Chair: Sen. Bill Coley

Education will be announced on January 9.

About Senate Committees: Senate committees are a critical part of the legislative process and function as the second consideration required of a bill before it can become law. Following a bill’s introduction, it is assigned to one of the Senate’s standing committees. During committee meetings, bills are debated and amended, and members of the general public are given the opportunity to contribute testimonies. Weekly committee schedules are posted on the Ohio Senate’s website, in the Senate Clerk’s office and in the hall outside the Senate Chamber. For more information, visit http://www.ohiosenate.gov/senate2012/committee/about-committees.

Incoming Senate President Announces New Committee Structure

release:

COLUMBUS – Ohio Senate President-Elect Keith Faber (R-Celina) announced today the restructuring of the Senate’s standing committees in order to more closely align them with the legislative priorities being formulated for the new General Assembly.

Because the state budget will be the primary legislative priority for the first six months of the new term, Faber also announced the creation of three sub-committees of the Finance Committee to more effectively address complex issues such as education and Medicaid. Senators not serving on the Finance committee will have an opportunity to participate in a Finance sub-committee.

“My goal with these changes is to maximize the incredible talent and skills we have in our members on both sides of the aisle,” Faber said. “With the state budget being such an important priority this year, the new Finance sub-committees will allow all of our members a place at the table to discuss and build consensus on the critical issues facing our state.”

Below is a listing of the new standing committees and three sub-committees for the 130th General Assembly.

Agriculture
Energy & Natural Resources*
Public Utilities*
Education
Workforce & Economic Development*
Transportation
Local Government, Public Safety & Veterans Affairs*
State Government Oversight & Reform*
Criminal Justice*
Civil Justice*
Commerce & Labor*
Ways & Means
Medicaid & Human Services*
Insurance & Financial Institutions*
Rules
Reference*
Finance

Finance Sub-Committees*:

Medicaid
Education
General Government

*New or restructured committee

About Senate Committees: Senate committees are a critical part of the legislative process and function as the second consideration required of a bill before it can become law. Following a bill’s introduction, it is assigned to one of the Senate’s standing committees. During committee meetings, bills are debated and amended, and members of the general public are given the opportunity to contribute testimonies. Weekly committee schedules are posted on the Ohio Senate’s website, in the Senate Clerk’s office and in the hall outside the Senate Chamber. For more information, visit http://www.ohiosenate.gov/senate2012/committee/about-committees.

Faber Elected President of the Ohio Senate

Release:

(Columbus) –Members of the Senate Majority Caucus today unanimously elected Senator Keith Faber (R-Celina) to serve as President of the Ohio Senate for the 130th General Assembly.

President-elect Faber is the first Senate President to serve from Mercer County. He was elected to the Ohio Senate in 2007 and has served in leadership since 2009, first as Majority Floor Leader and most currently as President Pro Tempore – the chamber’s number two position. Prior to serving in the Ohio Senate, Senator Faber served three consecutive terms in the Ohio House of Representatives.

"I'm humbled and honored to have the confidence of my colleagues in leading one of the most respected legislative institutions in the nation," said Faber. "I look forward to building on the progress we've already made in revitalizing our economy and getting Ohioans back to work. That will continue to be priority number one in the next General Assembly."

Senator Faber will assume his role as Senate President January 7, 2013 along with Senator Chris Widener (R-Springfield) who was unanimously elected President Pro Tempore; Senator Tom Patton (R-Strongsville) reelected as Majority Floor Leader, and Senator Larry Obhof (R-Medina) who was named Majority Whip.

Senator Widener has served in the Ohio Senate since 2009. He currently serves as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee, which is responsible for helping craft the state budget and overseeing other state-related fiscal matters. Before coming to the Senate, Senator Widener served as three terms as state representative. An architect by trade, he and his wife live in Springfield with their two children.

First appointed to the Ohio Senate in 2008, Senator Patton has a long history of serving the people of Cuyahoga County, having served six years in the Ohio House of Representatives. He has held the post of Majority Floor Leader since September 2011. A widower, he raised his family of five daughters and one son in Strongsville.

Senator Obhof was appointed to the 22nd Ohio Senate District last year, and has focused his legislative efforts on improving Ohio’s economy and creating opportunities for job growth. A graduate of The Ohio State University and Yale Law School, Obhof also works as an attorney with the national law firm Baker & Hostetler. He lives in Medina with his wife and three daughters.

Senator Faber represents the 12th Senate District, including Allen, a portion of Auglaize, Champaign, a portion of Darke, Mercer, Preble and Shelby counties. Outside his legislative duties, Faber is the principal partner in the law firm Faber and Associates. He and his wife Andrea live outside Celina in Mercer with their two children.