Representative Dontavius L. Jarrells - District 1

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) today voted against House Bill (HB) 1019, which passed in the Ohio House of Representatives with a vote of 78-16. The Gas Tax Holiday Act is an emergency measure that would pause retail taxes on gasoline and diesel for 90 days, saving the average Ohioan $75-90 over the duration of the pause. Although Ohioans need relief at the pump, the Republican proposal is not the best use of $725 million in state funds while families continue to struggle with the cost of health care, childcare, groceries, housing, utilities, and other basic expenses.

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) today celebrates a huge win for the safety and protection of Ohioans. As data centers remain at the forefront of conversations about economic and job growth, ensuring public safety remains a growing priority. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA) announced that they will not move forward with their initial proposal to allow data center wastewater in lakes, rivers, and other waterways.

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) today released the following statement congratulating Columbus Metro Library (CML) employees on the approval of their union. This accomplishment will protect some of the most essential workers within the community, ensuring they have a stronger voice within their workplace.

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) today praised Federal lawmakers for considering legislation to expand access to overdose-reversal medications in schools. In January 2026, House Bill 57 (HB 57), which authorizes schools to store and administer overdose-reversal medication, such as Naloxone, in emergencies to prevent fatal overdoses among students and staff, went into effect in Ohio. The bipartisan legislation championed by Rep. Jarrells and Majority Whip Josh Williams (R-Sylvania Twp.) places Ohio as a leading state in overdose prevention in K-12 schools.