Edwards Testifies on Bill to Add Incentives for Natural Gas Pipelines

COLUMBUS – State Representative Jay Edwards (R-Nelsonville) today provided sponsor testimony on legislation that would create areas within which tax and other incentives would be available to promote the development of natural gas infrastructure projects. 

These incentives are available in locally designated areas, called EnergizeOhio zones, and can include loan programs, cost recovery provisions, and a personal property tax reduction. EnergizeOhio zones are petitioned to the Department of Development and must be developing natural gas pipelines and the associated infrastructure. 

“House Bill 685 gives us the upper hand in the development of these pipelines,” Edwards said. “These incentives will promote the quick expansion of our pipeline system and keep Ohio’s energy moving.”

EnergizeOhio zone designations last five years and can be renewed for an additional five years if they meet certain requirements.

H.B. 685 now awaits its second hearing in the House Energy and Natural Resources Committee.