Sen. Tim Schaffer

Maddy summarySB 356 temporarily doubles the property tax reduction for Ohio homeowners with homestead exemptions during the 2026 tax year. It directly affects homeowners who qualify for homestead exemptions by applying the increased reduction entirely to their second-half tax bill. The bill achieves this by multiplying the standard exemption amount by two, without increasing the total tax relief allowed under existing law. This emergency measure aims to provide immediate tax relief to vulnerable Ohio taxpayers.

Maddy summarySB 361 prohibits government entities from using eminent domain (taking private property for public use) to acquire land for recreational trails. It specifically amends the Revised Code to define "public use" as excluding trails for nonmotorized activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, or canoeing. This directly affects property owners whose land might otherwise be seized for trail projects and agencies seeking to build such trails. The bill does not change eminent domain rules for other public uses like roads, utilities, or schools. The measure is currently pending in committee after its introduction on February 10, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 34 requires Ohio public schools to display certain historical documents in designated areas, directly affecting all K-12 public schools statewide. The bill amends specific sections of Ohio's education code to establish this requirement, mandating that schools display documents such as the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence. Key provisions specify that displays must be permanent, visible to students, and include educational materials explaining the documents' significance. This policy change alters school curriculum practices by formally integrating these historical documents into public school environments.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial resolution passed by the Ohio Senate to formally honor the Ohio Soybean Association on its 60th anniversary. It recognizes the association's service to soybean farmers and contributions to Ohio's agricultural community and economy over six decades. The resolution contains no new laws, funding, or obligations - it simply commends the association and directs a copy to be sent to them. It is purely symbolic recognition, with no direct impact on policy or affected parties beyond the honored organization.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SR 257) is a ceremonial resolution formally recognizing Jonathan Thomas for his service as a sergeant-at-arms in the Ohio Senate since 2020. It does not create any new laws or policies; instead, it expresses the Senate's appreciation for his dedication and contributions to the Ohio General Assembly. The resolution commends his "loyal service," "civic concern," and "selfless initiative" and directs the Senate Clerk to send him a copy. As a symbolic gesture, it directly affects only Jonathan Thomas and has no legal or financial impact on other Ohio residents.

Maddy summaryThis bill (SR 256) is a formal Senate resolution honoring the Newark Catholic High School girls volleyball team for winning the 2025 Division VI State Championship. It recognizes the team's athletic achievement, the coaches' dedication, and the values of teamwork and perseverance gained through competition. The resolution, adopted by the Ohio Senate, directs the Senate Clerk to send an authenticated copy of the resolution to the school. It has no policy impact or financial implications - serving solely as a symbolic gesture of recognition.

Maddy summarySR 255 is a ceremonial Senate Resolution honoring David Lee Wycuff, a former Ohio state employee who managed state buildings (including the Ohio Statehouse) and was active in his church community. The resolution, adopted on December 30, 2025, expresses the Senate's condolences to his family and commemorates his contributions to the Statehouse, his church, and his community. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it is a symbolic tribute with no legal effect. The resolution directs the Senate Clerk to send a copy to Wycuff's family.

Maddy summarySB 50 amends Ohio law to update requirements for minors under sixteen working. It changes the rules for age verification, schooling certificates, and maximum work hours for young workers. The bill directly affects employers hiring minors and the minors themselves, requiring updated documentation and limiting work time. These changes aim to clarify and strengthen protections for young workers while ensuring compliance with educational obligations.

Maddy summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate Resolution (SR 239) honoring Jim Kelly for his service to the Legislative Service Commission. It does not create new laws or affect any policies; it solely serves to recognize Mr. Kelly's contributions. The resolution formally expresses appreciation for his work with the Commission, which supports legislative operations. No concrete policy changes or direct impacts on constituents are involved.

Maddy summarySB 325 amends Ohio's tax code to allow contractors to exclude payments made to subcontractors from the Commercial Activity Tax (CAT). This change directly affects contractors who hire subcontractors for construction or similar projects, as it removes those specific payments from the tax base. The bill modifies section 5751.01 of the Revised Code to create this exclusion, meaning contractors would no longer pay CAT on amounts paid to subcontractors. This is a technical adjustment to the tax calculation, not a new tax or benefit.