Bill > SB281

This bill amends Ohio state law to explicitly authorize a board of county commissioners to award a franchise for operating a public transit system directly on its own behalf, in addition to doing so on behalf of a county transit board. The bill defines key terms such as "franchise" (a document giving exclusive rights to establish and operate a public transit system) and "franchisee" (the entity awarded the franchise), and outlines specific requirements for awarding and managing such franchises. Under the new provisions, county commissioners must award franchises for at least ten years, include performance targets related to cost savings, efficiency, safety, and public service, and ensure continuity of transit operations even if a franchise is terminated. The bill also specifies that franchisees cannot be prohibited from implementing new or improved services during their franchise term and must coordinate with other public transit providers. Franchisees have the right to appeal termination decisions, first to the county commissioners and then to a court of common pleas if necessary. This legislation provides more flexibility and explicit guidelines for how counties can manage and contract public transit systems.

Government Affairs

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb281