Labor & Employment (Gig Economy)

To amend sections 4121.01, 4123.01, 4123.26, 4123.29, 4123.35, 4925.01, and 4925.10 and to enact sections 4925.15, 4925.16, 4925.17, 4925.18, 4925.19, 4925.20, 4925.25, 4925.26, 4925.27, and 4925.28 of the Revised Code regarding minimum pay, workers' compensation, and other requirements applicable to transportation network company drivers.

To amend sections 4111.03 and 4111.14 and to enact section 4111.20 of the Revised Code regarding the distinction between employees and independent contractors under Ohio's overtime and minimum wage laws.

HB 59 requires all occupational licensing boards (like those for nurses, electricians, or contractors) to undergo regular reviews to determine if they still serve a public need. Each board must submit detailed reports on their purpose, costs, staffing, and effectiveness, and then prove to legislative committees that their regulation is necessary for public safety, not duplicative, and not unduly restrictive. Committees must evaluate boards using 23 specific criteria, including whether less restrictive alternatives exist or if the board serves private interests. This law directly affects every state occupational licensing board by shifting the burden to demonstrate continued necessity, rather than assuming boards should remain in place. The goal is to eliminate unnecessary regulations that could increase costs or hinder economic activity.