December is a time of year when we can both reminisce about the year that was and look forward to what lies ahead.

The Ohio House placed its firm focus on jobs and economic development over the past two years, and the results have been impressive. Ohio has now experienced 16 consecutive months where the unemployment rate has either dropped or stayed the same. The state’s unemployment rate (6.9 percent) is at its lowest point since 2008.

It is important for everyone to understand—particularly those in government—that jobs are not created by legislation. A limited and responsible government that is firmly dedicated to upholding the rule of law is necessary to allow entrepreneurs the freedom to innovate and produce goods and services, and the confidence to invest.

While our state has made great strides in the past couple years, we are not yet at the point we want to be. There are still too many people out of work. Our duty as legislators is to find ways to make it easier for businesses to create jobs—by eliminating unnecessary regulations that only add costs to small businesses and make hiring new workers more difficult. In this way, I view Ohio as an example for other states, as well as politicians in Washington, to follow.

Throughout the past two years, I have been impressed and motivated by the public’s engagement regarding the critical issues facing our state. I have focused on smarter, learner government, workforce development, lower taxes and regulation reform. My current district and the one to which I’m newly elected are blessed to be at the nexus of Ohio’s new energy-based economy. This presents opportunities and also challenges. I will do my best to help Ohio navigate through the days and weeks to come.

In my experiences talking with constituents, I have gained a better understanding for the concerns that the people of the 93rd District have. Your ideas and insights have been helpful to me, as well as to my fellow House members. We may not always agree, but by exchanging ideas we can hopefully reach a compromise that will benefit all Ohioans. I appreciate the opportunity to represent you again in the coming General Assembly.

As always, I invite you to remain active in the process, and I will try to be as accessible as I can during the next term. I look forward to meeting with you, and in the meantime I wish you a safe and festive Christmas and holiday season.