Lake County Times

All state agencies in Ohio required to submit reports on their regulatory reduction activities have done so, according to an announcement by JCARR Co-Chairs State Senator Theresa Gavarone and State Representative Jamie Callender. These submissions are part of the second year of reporting mandated by Senate Bill 9, which aims to lessen regulatory burdens in Ohio.

Senate Bill 9, signed into law by Governor DeWine in September 2022, set a goal for 27 agencies to reduce their regulatory inventory by 30% by June 2025. The bill also stipulates that for any new regulation introduced, two existing ones must be removed. Agencies are tasked with submitting annual reports detailing their progress.

In this second phase, 23 agencies met the reduction target of 20%, while four did not. Among those who achieved the goal are the Department of Administrative Services and the Department of Aging. Thirteen agencies have already reached the final target of a 30% reduction a year ahead of schedule.

"Red tape restricts job opportunities and opportunities for businesses to grow," said Gavarone. She emphasized that SB9 helps focus government agencies on service rather than restrictions.

Callender expressed gratitude towards compliant agencies: "The improvement from the reports submitted last year demonstrates not only a commitment to the intent of the legislature but also to reducing regulatory burden on Ohioans."

Agencies failing to meet goals will attend a JCARR meeting to discuss compliance efforts. "Excessive government bureaucracy enfeebles just about every Ohioan," stated Representative Brett Hillyer.

Adam Mathews added, "I am grateful we were able to shrink government for all Ohioans." He noted that efforts have led to reduced regulatory burdens on businesses and families.

JCARR was established in 1977 as a legislative check on executive rulemaking authority. It comprises ten members from both majority and minority chambers.

Senator Gavarone is serving her third term as Co-Chair, while Representative Callender is in his seventh term.