Swearingen and Click Announce passing of House Bill 314

COLUMBUS– State Representatives D.J. Swearingen (R-Huron) and Gary Click (R-Vickery) announced today the passing of House Bill 314 out of the Ohio House to address seasonal storage and usage tax for watercraft. 

The legislation, which passed by a unanimous vote, intends to exempt the seasonal storage tax for non-state registered watercraft owners. 

“This legislation will help bring more business to Ohio’s maritime and boat industries and thereby benefit many of my constituent marina owners, workers, and the communities in my district,” said Swearingen.

House Bill 314 strives to encourage individuals to store and repair their watercraft in Ohio over the offseason months in an effort to actively attract tourism to the state. 

Existing tax law results in Ohio businesses losing customers to neighboring states. In an effort to address this issue, House Bill 314 will help business owners, encourage customers to store and repair their watercraft in Ohio and keep tax dollars in the state. 

“House Bill 314 is common sense legislation that is good business and good for Ohio,” added Click.

The Ohio boating industry has a significant impact on the state’s economy and this legislation makes Ohio more competitive with neighboring states.