Bill to Establish Ohio Defense and Space Commission Signed into Law
State Representatives Nick Santucci (R-Niles) and Ty Mathews (R-Findlay) are pleased to share that Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 292, legislation to establish the Ohio Defense and Space Commission, into Ohio Law.
“Ohio is uniquely positioned to lead the next generation of American defense and aerospace innovation. This commission will bring together the right partners to compete for investment, grow advanced manufacturing, support our military installations, and create good-paying jobs across our state. House Bill 292 is about making sure Ohio is prepared to compete, lead, and deliver for our national security,” said Majority Whip Santucci.
“House Bill 292 is about positioning Ohio, and America, for the next generation of global competition. Ohio can help lead a new era of American reindustrialization by building the defense and aerospace industries that our nation will depend on. By strengthening these industries, we can help ensure not only the United States, but also Ohio, remains the world’s preeminent economic and military power. Ohio helped build the Arsenal of Democracy; now we have the opportunity to build the arsenal of the future,” said Mathews.
The bill establishes the Ohio Defense and Space Commission to consider strategies to promote the defense and aerospace industries in Ohio. If enacted, the commission would be responsible for the following:
- Administering the Defense and Aerospace Industries Expansion Program
- Recruiting international businesses to invest in the state for defense and aerospace industry purposes
- Promoting research, development, and manufacturing of technology to counter unmanned aerial vehicle systems in Ohio
- Considering policies intended to improve quality of life for service members and veterans
- Studying and developing comprehensive strategies to promote the defense and aerospace industries throughout the state
House Bill 292 is now enacted.