Batchelder and Huffman Release Statement on Oil and Gas Regulatory Legislation

Today, Speaker of the Ohio House William G. Batchelder (R-Medina), Speaker Pro Tempore Matt Huffman (R-Lima), and other members of the House Republican Caucus introduced legislation to enhance Ohio’s oil and gas regulatory program, a proposal that strives to promote economic development, address environmental concerns, and lower taxes on Ohioans and businesses.

Speaker Pro Tempore Huffman, who sponsored House Bill 375, released the following statement on the introduction of the legislation:

“House Bill 375 moves Ohio in the right direction as we responsibly explore our energy options right here in our state. It encourages job creation, benefits Ohio’s taxpayers, and prioritizes environmental issues, which puts us in the best possible position to take a fair and balanced approach to domestic energy exploration. This is a pragmatic, rational approach that will benefit all Ohioans.”

Speaker Batchelder, a cosponsor of the legislation, released the following statement:

“This tax reform proposal is a comprehensive, carefully constructed piece of legislation that incorporates many important aspects of oil and gas exploration in Ohio. As Ohio moves toward a significant energy-based economy, House Bill 375 will not only provide much-needed clarity about severance taxes and regulations, but also take significant steps to protect the environment and ensure that energy exploration in Ohio is safe and responsible. While I did not support previous proposals to institute a severance tax on the oil and gas industry, I believe that this legislation accomplishes many of the goals that needed to be addressed and can give Ohioans confidence in the process.”