4-24-2024 10:37pm

Bill to End Repeat Issue Numbers for Statewide Ballot Initiatives Unanimously Passes Committee

Beth Callahan Editor

Adam Mathews represents the 56th Ohio House District, which encompasses a southwestern portion and central Warren County including Lebanon, South Lebanon, and Mason.

LEBANON, OH -- State Representatives Adam Mathews’ (R-Lebanon) and Bob Peterson’s (R-Sabina) bill to end repeat ballot initiative numbering unanimously passed during its committee hearing Tuesday. The bill will bring clarity and transparency to statewide ballot initiatives in Ohio.

The legislation clarifies that for elections occurring after November 2024, statewide ballot issues will be designated by the Arabic numeral consecutive to that of the last statewide ballot issue in the immediately preceding election. For example, for two consecutive elections on different dates including a statewide ballot issue, the first election will contain Issue 1, the next election will contain Issue 2, and so on.

“While drafting this bill, we heard from many voters and civically engaged Ohioans who wished for more clarity at the ballot box,” Mathews said. “Our aim in introducing this legislation is to ensure that each ballot issue put before the voters receives the unique and thoughtful debate it deserves.”

“We look forward to this piece of legislation moving forward in the process,” Peterson stated. “I think we can all agree that this is an issue that needs to be addressed to alleviate voter confusion at the polls.”

The measure now awaits consideration on the House floor.