Rep. Sweeney Honored as Ohio Chamber of Commerce Legislator of the Year

COLUMBUS – The Ohio Chamber of Commerce has named State Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney (D-Westlake) one of its 2025 Legislators of the Year, recognizing her leadership in securing historic investments in public transportation and childcare that strengthen Ohio’s workforce and support working families.

Rep. Sweeney worked with business and community leaders to deliver the largest-ever state investment in public transportation—helping Ohioans get to work, school, and essential services—as well as an additional $100m to expand access to publicly funded childcare. She also led efforts to reform the Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities, eliminating a benefits cliff that kept many Ohioans with disabilities from working past age 65 and allowing businesses to retain dedicated workers.

“These investments are about making Ohio work for everyone,” said Rep. Sweeney. “When parents can afford quality childcare, they can stay in the workforce. When workers can reliably get to their jobs, businesses can grow. And when Ohioans with disabilities are able to work without fear of losing life-saving benefits, our economy benefits from their contributions. These are not partisan issues—they are the building blocks of a stronger economy and stronger communities. I’m honored that the Chamber recognizes this work as critical to Ohio’s future.”

The Ohio Chamber’s Legislator of the Year Award is given to lawmakers who demonstrate bipartisan problem-solving and a commitment to policies that support Ohio’s economic vitality.

Rep. Sweeney represents Ohio’s 16 House District, which includes Westlake, Bay Village, Fairview Park, Rocky River, and Cleveland wards 16 and 17. She serves as the Ranking Member on the Finance Committee, helping craft the State of Ohio’s $60b budget.  She has long been an advocate for policies that strengthen families, expand opportunity, and invest in Ohio’s future.