Schaffer Introduces Legislation to Help Ohioans Thrive

COLUMBUS - State Senator Tim Schaffer (R-Lancaster) announced the introduction of several bills to help Ohio and its citizens. 

"The ideas we are working on will assist every Ohioan in building strong families and keeping our communities safe," said Senator Schaffer.

This legislation will:

Help Build Up Families: Senate Bill 32, joint sponsored by Senators Schaffer and Reynolds, would establish the Child Care Cred program to create a cost-sharing model to help parents enter the workforce while ensuring they can afford quality child care.    
"It is critical we support our families as they seek to be part of Ohio's strong workforce, and this program will get us started down a path for success," said Schaffer.

Teach our Next Generation New Skills: Senate Bill 50 would provide flexibility 14 and 15 year olds work schedules, without increasing weekly work hours, to be employed during the school year between 7pm and 9pm if granted approval by their parents or guardians and school officials. Additionally, Senate Concurrent Resolution 3 urges Congress to make parallel changes.

"We have young people currently looking to gain new skills that will better their futures, and this simple fix will allow them, with their parents' approval, to do so."

Safeguard your Tax Dollars: Senate Bill 51 establishes legislative oversight on creating unplanned obligations on voluntary federal unemployment compensation programs. "It's essential the legislature, which has the power of the purse, is involved in making sure we keep government accountable to you," said the senator. "This is a simple step to do so, keeping your hard-earned money in your wallet. Extended longtime unemployment benefits outside of Ohio’s customary unemployment compensation program has a detrimental recessionary effect on the economy and prevents recovery from difficult economic times.”

Remembering a Congressional Leader: Senate Bill 52 designates portions of U.S. Route 33 in Fairfield County and part of Interstate 70 in the name of Congressman Dave Hobson. "The Congressman was a dear friend and mentor to many in public service who deserves to be honored for his contributions to our state and country," said Schaffer. 

Protect our Communities: Senate Bill 53 requires offenders to pay for the costs of damages that result from riots and vandalism. The bill also prohibits government officials from limiting law enforcement officers' authority to take action to quell riots and arrest or detain individuals involved in these acts. 

"It is simply common sense that people who damage property should pay for its repair," said Schaffer. "We should also be empowering our law enforcement officers to do their jobs as well."

Keep Homeowners Safe: Senate Bill 54 creates a voluntary certification program for residential contractors that will increase consumer protection and encourage best practices, protecting consumers from bad contractors. 

"This idea came to my office through reports of problems with contractors that nearly resulted in severe or deadly consequences. This legislation will enhance consumer protection for you and your family."

Upholding the Second Amendment: Senate Bill 59 establishes a sales tax exemption for firearms and ammunition. The legislation also offers a refundable tax credit for manufacturers of firearms and ammunition to build or expand facilities here in the Buckeye State. 

"Senate Bill 59 further supports your Second Amendment rights while allowing for more businesses to come here or expand their operations in Ohio," said Schaffer. “I am proud to be joint sponsoring this bill with Senator Al Cutrona.”