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State Legislators Craig Riedel, Jon Cross, George Lang and Mark Romanchuk Announce Business First Caucus

February 4, 2021
Jon Cross News

COLUMBUS – State Representatives Craig S. Riedel (R-Defiance) and Jon Cross (R-Kenton) will serve as Co-Chairs to the Business First Caucus for the 134th General Assembly. The Chairs also include State Senators George Lang (R-West Chester) and Mark Romanchuk (R-Ontario.) The bipartisan, bicameral caucus focuses on helping small businesses in Ohio become more successful.

“As legislators, we know that small businesses are the engines that drive economic growth,” said Rep. Riedel. “The purpose of the Business First Caucus is to advance policies and initiatives that will help make Ohio the most business-friendly state in the nation.”

“Small businesses create jobs and opportunities for Ohioans and strengthen our communities. The Business First Caucus will be laser-focused on helping Ohio’s businesses to flourish and prosper,” said Senator Lang.

According to U.S. News and World Report, Ohio is ranked 38th in the nation for Economic Performance.

“The number one reason people leave Ohio is better economic opportunity elsewhere,” added Rep. Cross. “The goal of this caucus is to help solve this pressing issue.”

"Ohio has consistently ranked near the bottom for economic performance when compared to other states. This caucus will focus on passing policy that moves Ohio to the top of the list," said Senator Romanchuk.

The Business First Caucus plans to be at the center of major tax and regulatory reform and to promote ideas and legislation that positively impact Ohio small businesses.

The caucus contains the following subcommittees and their respective chairs:

  • Tax Reform/Simplification – State Representatives Derek Merrin and Bill Roemer
  • Regulatory Reform – State Senators Kristina Roegner and Robert McColley
  • Smaller Government – State Representatives Riordan McClain and Reggie Stoltzfus
  • Workforce Development – State Senators Bill Reineke and Michael Rulli

The caucus, with over 70 representatives and senators, plans on meeting monthly.