The Ohio Manufacturers’ Association (OMA) convened its Board of Directors in Columbus this week around a central question. What will it take for Ohio to compete?

The discussion centered on many of the issues now shaping the state’s manufacturing economy, including rising electricity costs, monopoly utility accountability, workforce development, tax policy, environmental regulation and the 2026 election landscape.

“These conversations matter because they are grounded in what manufacturers are actually seeing every day,” said James Lee, OMA managing director of public policy services. “Our members can have serious, civil discussions about difficult issues because they are focused on the same goal, making Ohio the best state in the country to make things.”

OMA will continue bringing that member-driven perspective to policymakers as the association works to protect and grow Ohio manufacturing. 6/16/2026