Ohio Senate Slips in Utility Giveaway

The Ohio Senate this week inserted a potentially far-reaching utility giveaway into House Bill 201, legislation to prohibit local governments from enacting EV mandates.

The OMA’s energy counsel, Kim Bojko, testified in opposition to the amendment, telling lawmakers that the new language was similar to a provision added to the state budget last summer. That provision was vetoed by Gov. Mike DeWine.

The new language in HB 201 authorizes more above-market costs on business and residential customers, while stripping long-standing consumer protections.

The amended version of HB 201 has since been approved by both chambers of the legislature, despite receiving little debate. Manufacturers concerned about the authorization of these unlimited charges on their natural gas bills should contact Gov. DeWine and ask him to veto HB 201. 12/14/2023