Bill > SB362

This bill establishes the Ohio Defense and Space Commission, a new body tasked with promoting Ohio's defense and aerospace industries. The commission will administer a program to provide development grants for economic development in these sectors, including funding for facilities like Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) used for processing classified information, supporting small businesses with defense contracts, and advocating for state defense projects. The commission will also study strategies to boost these industries, encourage collaboration between businesses, the military, and academia, prepare the state for changes in federal military bases, and attract international investment in defense and aerospace. Revenue from interest earned on certain Israeli bonds will be deposited into the Ohio Defense Fund, which will be used to support the commission's initiatives. The bill also outlines the commission's membership, which includes representatives from state government, the legislature, the Ohio Chamber of Commerce, and regional appointees, and mandates that commission meetings occur at least monthly. Additionally, the bill makes changes to existing law regarding public meetings, specifically section 121.22 of the Revised Code, which governs open meetings for public bodies, by repealing it and enacting new provisions related to the commission's operations.

Business and Industry

https://www.legislature.ohio.gov/legislation/136/sb362