In other legislative action, the Ohio House on Thursday passed the Business Fairness Act.
COLUMBUS — State Rep. Al Cutrona, R-Canfield, introduced House Bill 292, which would establish the Electric Vehicle Commission and create a temporary sales tax exemption for electric vehicle production parts.
“Remaining economically competitive within the region of Ohio as well as with our neighboring states is a top priority,” Cutrona said in a news release. “I believe establishing this body also serves as an investment for job retention and economic development up here in Northeast Ohio.”
Cutrona said electric vehicles are on track to be an essential part of the future of the car and vehicle industries, and creating a commission to study and make recommendations on the issue is a productive first step.
The bipartisan legislation is sponsored by Cutrona and state Rep. Lisa Sobecki, D-Toledo. It has 18 cosponsors and awaits its first committee hearing.
Ohio House passes Business Fairness Act
COLUMBUS — Ohio businesses would be able to continue to operate during a public health emergency if a bill passed by the Ohio House clears the Senate and is signed by Gov. Mike DeWine.
House Bill 215 would require businesses to comply with safety standards from government orders or regulations to stay open, but it does provide an avenue to keep businesses up and running in times of emergency.
“Small-business owners had their worlds turned upside down when they were forced to shut down last year,” state Rep. Jon Cross, R-Kenton, said. “Getting this bill signed into law will send a strong message that Ohio will remain open for business and keep our economy moving forward.”
The Business Fairness Act, which was passed in the House on Thursday, designates all businesses as essential. Cross, along with state Rep. Shane Wilkin, R-Hillsboro, said it promotes fairness among big and small businesses by giving any business the ability to maintain operations during a public health emergency.
The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration.
— The Center Square contributed to this report.