Speaker of the Ohio House William G. Batchelder (R-Medina) announced that throughout the summer and early autumn, members of the House Republican Caucus will lead a series of ad hoc study committees that will serve as public forums to gain feedback on Ohio’s most important issues. The committees are comprised of members of both the majority and minority caucuses.

These three committees—the Workforce Development Study Committee, the Tax Structure Study Committee, and the Technology in State Government Study Committee—will be charged with travelling throughout the state to discuss these various issues and bring the public’s insight back to Columbus.

“These committees will serve the very important function of soliciting ideas from the people of Ohio,” Batchelder said. “As lawmakers, we must constantly strive to connect with our constituents and ensure that their voices are heard. As we move into the fall legislative session, the results of these meetings will serve as the springboard for possible reform on these issues.”

The initial meetings will be held at the following times and locations:
• The Tax Structure Study Committee will meet on August 24th at 10 a.m. in Ohio Statehouse room 114
• The Workforce Development Committee will meet on August 31st at 10 a.m. in Ohio Statehouse room 116
• The Technology in State Government Committee will meet on August 31st at 10 a.m. in Ohio Statehouse room 121

The Workforce Development Study Committee, which will be examining the state’s workforce development programs and policies, will be chaired by State Representative Tim Derickson (R-Oxford).

The Tax Structure Study Committee will examine the tax code to ensure the best tax environment for Ohio’s citizens and businesses. It will be chaired by State Representative John Adams (R-Sidney).

The Technology in State Government Study Committee will explore how utilizing technology may render greater efficiency and services, ultimately improving the incorporation of technology into Ohio’s business model. The committee will be chaired by State Representative Craig Newbold (R-Columbiana).

Upon completing the necessary research and obtaining input from Ohioans, each committee intends to put forth an executive summary and possible recommendations for the Legislature.