Bill > HB176

This bill establishes a universal regulatory sandbox program within Ohio's Common Sense Initiative Office to help innovative businesses temporarily test new products or services with reduced regulatory barriers. The program creates a regulatory relief division that will help businesses navigate regulatory challenges by allowing them to apply for limited market access without obtaining traditional licenses or authorizations. The bill creates a detailed application process where businesses can seek temporary waivers or suspensions of certain state regulations to demonstrate innovative offerings, with strong consumer protection safeguards. An advisory committee composed of business representatives, state agency representatives, and legislators will review applications and make recommendations. Participants must fully disclose potential risks to consumers, cannot be exempt from criminal liability, and must maintain detailed records of their demonstrations. The program allows businesses to test innovative products or services for up to five years, with potential extensions, and requires quarterly reporting to track performance and potential consumer impacts. The regulatory relief division will also maintain a public website where residents and businesses can suggest regulatory reforms, with the goal of reducing unnecessary regulatory burdens while still protecting consumer interests.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb176