Rep. Rader, Sen. Ingram Object to JobsOhio Contract Extension, Citing Concerns Over Efficiency, Accountability, and Transparency

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) and State Sen. Catherine D. Ingram (D-Cincinnati) yesterday objected to the Controlling Boards’ controversial 15-year extension of JobsOhio’s control over the state’s liquor profits. The decision extends the one-sided deal for JobsOhio’s on their contract extension with the state until 2053, despite that initial contract not expiring until 2038.

“JobsOhio operates behind a wall of secrecy, using public dollars without the oversight Ohio taxpayers deserve,” said Rep. Rader. “Before handing over billions of dollars in liquor revenue for another 15 years, we should demand a real, independent evaluation of JobsOhio’s effectiveness and a commitment to full public accountability. Instead, this extension was rushed through without answering the fundamental question: Is JobsOhio delivering the results Ohioans expect?”

The extension renews a long-standing agreement that gives JobsOhio exclusive control over revenue from the state’s liquor sales, which funds its economic development initiatives. However, the organization is not subject to Ohio’s public records laws, shielding its financial dealings from public scrutiny.

“I have asked for open records for some time. Despite the good work they’ve done, I do believe reviewing the agreement is necessary. Taking the time to do so, whether it be 6 months or a year, would not disrepute their ability to continue development,” said Sen. Ingram.

Critics, including Attorney General Dave Yost, have called for significant reforms before any long-term extension is granted. Yost previously proposed that JobsOhio allocate at least $840M toward workforce development initiatives, but no such provision was included in today’s approval.

Moving forward, Rep. Rader and Sen. Ingram pledge to fight for greater transparency and oversight of state-funded economic initiatives.