Gross Introduces Legislation to Stop Meddling in Party Primaries

COLUMBUS—State Rep. Jennifer Gross (R-West Chester) recently introduced legislation to reinforce election integrity and stop meddling in party primaries in Ohio.

House Bill 210 will help precinct election officials, who under current law are required to determine party affiliation, by having electors register in advance if they want to change parties or affiliate with a party.   Electors who desire to change parties or affiliate with a party will be required to register as a member of that political party by December 31st preceding a primary election in order to participate in that party's primary election. 

“This legislation allows Ohio’s primary elections to run as they were intended,” said Gross. “By establishing an advanced deadline to register for a political party, Ohio citizens can have full faith in the election process without fear of unnecessary cross-over or political raiding. “

Currently, voters are permitted to cross party lines or affiliate with a party on Election Day. This is a political decision in many cases and not a conscious decision to become a party member, supporting the principles of the party.   

House Bill 210 awaits hearings in the Government Oversight Committee.