Ohio House Passes Governor's Office of Drug Policy Legislation

COLUMBUS— Speaker Larry Householder (R-Glenford) today announced the Ohio House passage of House Bill 10, legislation that creates the Governor’s Office of Drug Policy. This legislation, sponsored by State Representatives Richard Brown (D-Canal Winchester) and Reggie Stoltzfus (R-Minerva) will create a permanent, centralized office within the governor’s office to coordinate the state’s drug-related efforts. The bill also will help support local efforts, including sharing best practices that have made a difference and helping facilitate mutual aid across communities.

“The drug crisis touches each and every Ohioan,” said Speaker Householder. “This bill will help us combat this deadly crisis by coordinating all of our state’s efforts in one centralized office.”

House Bill 10 is one of the bipartisan priority bills for the 133rd General Assembly, legislation that builds pillars for a stronger Ohio.

“Ohio is tied for first in the nation in overdose deaths, yet we do not have a statewide drug policy office. It is beyond time for this commonsense solution,” said Rep. Richard Brown. “I am proud to sponsor this bill to combat our state's addiction epidemic and support our local communities.”

“This legislation will allow state agencies and local governments to work together,” said Rep. Stoltzfus. “Through the Governor’s Drug Policy Office, standardized and streamlined proven practices will ensure effective and productive use of taxpayer money for drug treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation.”

HB 10 passed the Ohio House unanimously and now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.