Sen. Willis Blackshear

Maddy summarySB 337 requires businesses to clearly disclose any credit card surcharges at the point of sale, directly affecting consumers and businesses during transactions. The bill mandates written notice of these fees before a purchase is completed, ensuring shoppers see the full cost upfront. Violations would be treated as unfair business practices under existing law, allowing the Attorney General and consumers to pursue enforcement. This bill is currently in the introduction stage (2025-12-23) and has not yet advanced in the legislative process.

Maddy summarySB 330, the Student Wellness Act, allows Ohio school districts to count mental health days as excused absences for students. This directly affects students who need to miss school for mental health reasons and school districts that implement the policy. The key provision amends school absence rules to explicitly include mental health as a valid reason for excused absences, replacing the need for traditional medical notes. School districts can now adopt this policy without additional legislative approval under the new section 3321.044 of the Revised Code. The law aims to support student well-being by reducing barriers to seeking mental health care.

Maddy summaryThis bill would designate the buckeye nut as Ohio's official state candy by adding it to the Revised Code. It directly affects Ohio's official state symbols by formally recognizing the buckeye nut as a cultural emblem, similar to existing designations like the state nut. The bill does not change laws or regulations but adds this symbolic honor to Ohio's list of official state emblems.

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 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 summaryThis is a ceremonial Senate resolution (SR 244) honoring Esther Price Candies for its 100th anniversary. It recognizes the Dayton-based business for its century-long tradition of handcrafting candies using original recipes and local ingredients. The resolution, adopted on December 8, 2025, commends the company's service to the community and directs the Senate Clerk to send a copy of the resolution to Esther Price Candies. It does not create any new laws, policies, or obligations.

Maddy summaryThis resolution (SR 240) formally commends the Oakwood High School girls cross country team for winning the 2025 Division III State Championship. It serves as a ceremonial honor from the legislature, directly recognizing the team's athletic achievement without creating any new policies, funding, or obligations. The bill has no practical impact beyond the symbolic gesture of acknowledgment.

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 summaryThis is a commemorative resolution (SR 226) honoring Zelda “Zettie” Zoe Keeran. It serves solely to memorialize her life and legacy without creating any new laws or affecting policies or individuals. The resolution has no legislative effect beyond recognition.

Honoring the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Division of Parks and Watercraft on receiving the 2025 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management.