Guest Column: A Legislative Update by Representative Scott Oelslager

The House was successful in passing several pieces of legislation recently including empowering local communities on energy projects, allowing income tax credits for new farmers, and permanent registration for noncommercial trailers.

My colleagues in the Ohio House and I work diligently to help the lives of Ohioans and I appreciate the opportunity to give you an update on these issues.

Empowering Local Communities on Energy Projects: This legislation under Senate Bill 52 gives county commissioner boards the authority on whether to permit or prevent certification of wind and solar projects within their local communities. Additionally, it establishes decommissioning requirements for certain energy facilities.

The General Assembly recently passed the bill and it was signed into law by the governor earlier this month.

Income Tax Credits for New Farmers: This bipartisan bill was approved by the House over the summer and it creates income tax credits for beginning farmers. The legislation allows income tax credits for established farmers when they sell or rent their agricultural assets to new farmers who take a qualified financial management course – assets include farmland, livestock, buildings, and equipment.

The credit is limited to five years and allows up to $10 million for the total amount of tax credits awarded over those five years.

Permanent Registration for Noncommercial Trailers: House Bill 96 received bipartisan support as it provides a permanent registration option for noncommercial trailers to transport boats, motorcycles, pop-up campers and many other modes of transportation. There are approximately 700,000 registered noncommercial trailers throughout the state with thousands more that are not registered. 

The bill will help get these trailers registered for permanent registration for the cost of eight years of the annual price without having to pay annually. Paying annually to register the trailer remains an option.

In everything I do, whether it is in Columbus or back in my home district of Stark County, I will continue to make your priorities my priorities. With that goal in mind, I welcome your feedback and opinions at any time. Please do not hesitate to contact me by calling (614) 752-2438, emailing Rep48@OhioHouse.gov, or by writing me at 77 South High St., Columbus, Ohio 43215.