Bill > HB291

This bill creates the Ohio International Trade Commission to advance international relations and economic cooperation with Japan, Ireland, Israel, and two additional nations designated by the director of development. The commission will consist of six legislative members (three from the Senate and three from the House of Representatives) and eight appointed members representing various community and trade interests. These appointed members will include representatives from nonprofit organizations, Japanese-American, Israeli-American, and Irish-American communities, and representatives from two additional designated nations. Commission members will serve without compensation, with legislative members serving two-year terms and appointed members serving four-year terms. The commission's responsibilities include promoting multilateral trade and investment, joint research agreements, business and academic exchanges, technology center collaborations, and mutual economic support. The commission is required to meet throughout the state, select a chairperson, and issue annual reports to the governor and legislative leadership. Importantly, the commission can raise funds through solicitation and fundraising, with received funds deposited into a newly created Ohio International Trade Commission Fund to support its administrative expenses and operational purposes.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/hb291