Representative David Thomas Provides Sponsor Testimony on Five Important Bills

State Representative David Thomas (R–Jefferson) provided sponsor testimony in House Committees this week on House Bills 389, 230, 473, and 476, each offering targeted reforms with the potential for statewide impact. He also testified for H.B. 124 in the Senate’s Local Government Committee.

House Bill 389 eliminates the additional registration fee imposed on hybrid vehicles in Ohio. The legislation addresses concerns that the fee creates a financial disincentive for drivers choosing fuel-efficient vehicles.

House Bill 476, which is co-sponsored by Representative Meredith Craig, allows nonprofit organizations to sell raffle tickets online. The bill addresses recent enforcement that shut down digital fundraising efforts and helps local nonprofits recover lost revenue while maintaining regulatory oversight.

“These organizations deserve clarity, not confusion. They deserve a law that reflects the world we live in today, where digital tools are part of everyday life,” said Representative Thomas, “HB 476 simply gives them the flexibility to meet supporters where they are and to continue serving our communities effectively.”

House Bill 230 proposes to fix a recent law change that makes it harder for joint venture title insurance companies to remain a viable business. The bill aims to revert a budget change made last General Assembly and make it easier to restructure joint venture title agencies so they can provide a faster and more effective service for their patrons. 

House Bill 473 would prohibit public employers from paying the employee share of contributions to state pension systems. The bill seeks to improve transparency and fairness by ensuring that employer and employee contributions are clearly defined and appropriately allocated within Ohio’s public pension structure.

House Bill 124, which received testimony in the Senate, gives County Auditors the authority to determine which real estate sales are valid for use in property revaluations and updates. The bill ensures local expertise is used in determining accurate property values while preserving oversight by the Department of Taxation.

“The intent of this bill (H.B. 124) is not to alter the relationship between current leadership in the department and counties,” said Representative Thomas, “But rather set a strong precedent for future years over who should have the final authority to determine values and valid sales.” Presented in his testimony he said, “this is important as the data used in value updates is critical to getting the property values correct.”

All pieces of legislation await further consideration by their respective committees.