Statehouse shenanigans

Even though national politics dominate the 24-hour news cycle, Ohioans really should be keeping their eye on the shenanigans in our Statehouse. Take a look at SB153/HB233, Ohio's version of the federal SAVE Act. Even though the Ohio Secretary of State reports a nearly impeccable voting safety record, our legislature wants to impose even more stringent and restrictive parameters for Ohioans to vote, including excessive documentation to prove citizenship, restricted registration methods, and banning ballot drop boxes, effectively making the voting process much more difficult. Or, consider the proposed reduction in the tax rate for those who make over $100,000 a year. This would result in an estimated $1.1 billion loss to the General Revenue Fund, reducing government services, which are already being cut across the board. There is also the newly proposed legislation which would ban all forms of abortion, regardless of rape or incest. It would outlaw IVF and some other forms of contraception. If passed, women who have abortions would be charged with homicide. This is just a small sampling of the extreme legislation being considered seriously at our Statehouse. If you want to know more about how things work at Ohio's Statehouse, come out to the Milestone Event Center in Norwalk on Tuesday evening, June 24, from 7-9 p.m. to gain a clear understanding of how state laws are created, learn practical tips for making your voice heard, and discover ways you can turn ideas into action. Remember, Ohio's legislature works for us. Let's make sure they remember that. Kate Rivet Vermilion