John Applauds Bill-Signing of County Flexibility and Energy Cost-Savings Legislation

State Rep. Marilyn John (R-Richland County) has had her first sponsored legislation under House Bill 87 signed into law.

The governor signed John’s legislation this week, which allows more flexibility for counties and assisting them against rising energy costs.

“I’m thankful this bill moved swiftly through our legislative process as it establishes an exemption for utility supply contracts entered into under a joint purchasing program,” said John. “With a limitation of ten years for county utility supply contracts, this legislation would change current law to exempt contracts from the 10 year limit. Because the state, municipalities, and townships already have the ability to enter into longer term contracts, this change does not apply to them.”

The agreements will allow counties to lock in a portion of their energy loads for county facilities and aggregation programs. Additionally, the legislation could serve as a long-term constraint against rising energy costs and can produce savings for both counties and customers alike.

The bill passed unanimously in the Ohio House back in March. John spoke to the bipartisan bill on the House floor. Subsequently, the Senate followed suit by passing it in early May.

Along with John, State Rep. Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) serves as a joint sponsor of the bill in addition to over 30 other cosponsors in the House and Senate.

The legislation included an emergency clause and went into immediate effect