Bill > SB268

This bill amends Ohio's administrative rules to enhance transparency and oversight of regulatory processes, particularly focusing on interactions between state agencies and regulatory-focused nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). The legislation requires agencies to disclose detailed information about their relationships with these NGOs, including funding received, staff travel expenses, committee memberships, and any rules drafted based on model language provided by these organizations. Agencies must now provide an annual report to the Ohio Ethics Commission detailing these interactions, which will be made publicly accessible online. When an agency considers adopting a rule based on model language from a regulatory-focused NGO, it must now follow a more rigorous process that includes providing public notice at least 60 days in advance, conducting a public hearing, and convening an advisory committee with representatives from various stakeholder groups to evaluate the rule's potential impact. The bill also defines what constitutes a "regulatory-focused nongovernmental organization" and mandates that all communications between agencies and such organizations concerning rule-making be considered public records. These requirements aim to increase transparency, prevent potential conflicts of interest, and ensure that regulatory decisions are made with broad input and public scrutiny.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb268