Robb Blasdel, Jones work to create the Ohio River Commission

COLUMBUS- House Bill 469, legislation to create the Ohio River Commission as introduced by State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (R-Columbiana) and Joint-Sponsor State Rep. Don Jones (R-Freeport) had its first hearing today in the Economic and Workforce Development Committee. 

House Bill 469 would create the Ohio River Commission within the Department of Development to promote economic development, marine cargo terminal operations, and travel and tourism on the Ohio River and its tributaries. 

“From the beginning of record-keeping in 1917 to today, commercial traffic has increased from 5 million tons of cargo to over 230 million tons,” said Blasdel. “Creation of the Ohio River Commission will allow the State of Ohio to protect and utilize an essential cultural and commercial asset to maximize the benefit to all Ohioans.”

The commission would consist of 11 members: the director of Development (who would chair the committee), the directors of ODNR and ODOT, one member each appointed by the House Speaker and Senate President, and 6 other members appointed by the Governor. 

The Ohio River Commission’s duties would be many, but, consistent with its aims of promoting prosperity throughout Ohio, here are a few highlights. The Commission would: 

In collaboration with public or private planning organizations, develop a master plan for Ohio River infrastructure and transportation projects; 
Coordinate with port authorities, local development districts, the federal government, and many other interested parties regarding Ohio River Issues; 
Make an annual report to the Legislature regarding commerce on the Ohio River; 
And seek and award grants, seek and issue loans, and utilize other finance mechanisms in support of the Ohio River projects. 
 

“I am confident in the value this commission would add to the assets of the Ohio River,” said Jones. “This commission will benefit the people of Ohio for many years to come.” 

The Ohio River Commission will be funded by the Ohio River Commission Fund in the state treasury, which is created by this bill. It also allows the Commission to be funded by appropriate sources of revenue from the Department of Development. 

For more information, contact Representative Robb Blasdel’s office at rep79@ohiohouse.gov

OR

Representative Jones’ office at rep95@ohiohouse.gov