Leadership

House Dems Help Elect New Ohio Speaker

Members will recall that following the November election, Toledo-area Rep. Derek Merrin (R-Monclova Township) was unofficially selected by his fellow House Republicans to be Ohio’s next speaker — one of the most powerful posts in state government. But on Jan. 3, southern Ohio Rep. Jason Stephens (R-Kitts Hill) defeated Merrin in the House’s official vote.

It was an upset that stunned Statehouse observers. All of Merrin’s 43 votes came from Republicans — while only 22 Republicans voted for Stephens. All 32 Democrats voted for Stephens.

The Plain Dealer published this story on how Stephens’ successful bid came together. The paper notes that the vote was reminiscent of the 2019 speaker election, in which Democrats provided Larry Householder the support needed to unseat then-Speaker Ryan Smith.

Gongwer News Service reports Minority Leader Allison Russo (D-Upper Arlington) denied any “grand deals” were made in securing the vote for Stephens, but she said issues like “supporting workers” and education policy were discussed. Meanwhile, conservative commentator Mehek Cooke told WTVN in Columbus that some House Republicans “sold out” in “a favor to unions.”

Going forward, the new speaker will have to contend with a fractured GOP caucus, while the House legislative agenda remains uncertain, as noted by the Statehouse News Bureau. 1/5/2023

Governor Names Deters to Fill Supreme Court Vacancy

Gov. Mike DeWine recently announced he selected Hamilton County Prosecutor Joseph Deters, a former state treasurer, to fill the Supreme Court of Ohio vacancy that resulted from Justice Sharon Kennedy’s election to become chief justice. With DeWine’s selection, the GOP maintains its 4-3 high court majority. 1/3/2023

Governor Signs Distracted Driving Bill

Gov. Mike DeWine has signed Senate Bill 288, which makes the use of cell phones and other electronic communications devices while driving a primary traffic offense for all drivers, thereby allowing law enforcement to immediately pull over a distracted driver. The new law takes effect in 90 days (March 4). 1/3/2023

Ohio Fares Well in Two New Comparisons

A new report by U-Haul moving service shows Ohio is a top relocation destination, coming in at No. 9 when comparing one-way moves into the state versus those leaving the state in 2022. Ohio was the only Midwest state to make the top 10 in the annual U-Haul Growth Index.

Also, in its annual “State of the Year” honors, Business Facilities has named Ohio the top Midwest state. The magazine spotlighted the Buckeye State’s focus on innovation. 1/5/2023

Comparing the ‘Most American-Made’ Autos

American University’s Kogod School of Business recently released its annual “Made in America Auto Index.” For 2022 models, the Lincoln Corsair took top honors, with 72% U.S. and Canadian parts and a U.S.-made engine. Ford, GM, Honda, and Stellantis produce the most American-made autos, according to the study. 1/4/2023

Latest Numbers on Automaker Chip Shortage

Automotive News recently published this update on the microchip shortage facing automakers in North America. The data, which was current as of Dec. 16, includes potential lost volume at each manufacturers’ facility. 1/3/2023

5 Cybersecurity Resolutions for 2023

What steps can organizations take to improve their cybersecurity posture in 2023? OMA Connections Partner Schneider Downs has published this list of five achievable resolutions businesses can make to strengthen their cybersecurity. 1/5/2023