Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

Ohio House Bill HB201

Introduced
6/6/23  
Report Pass
10/4/23  
Engrossed
11/15/23  
Report Pass
12/13/23  
Enrolled
12/13/23  
Passed
12/28/23  

Caption

Prohibit sale restrictions on motor vehicle based on power source

Impact

The legislation not only prohibits restrictions on vehicles based on their energy source but also modifies requirements related to natural gas company infrastructure developments. This includes allowing natural gas companies to recover costs associated with approved economic development projects more efficiently through enhanced application processes for infrastructure development riders. Such changes are intended to streamline operations and promote economic growth through better investments in necessary energy infrastructure. By limiting local and state-level regulatory chaos, the bill aims to foster a more cohesive approach to vehicle regulations and energy sources.

Summary

House Bill 201 seeks to significantly alter the regulatory landscape governing the sale and use of motor vehicles in Ohio by prohibiting state agencies, counties, and townships from imposing restrictions based on the energy source of these vehicles. This legislative change aligns Ohio's regulations with a push against California's stringent emissions standards, thereby ensuring that state-imposed standards do not adopt more restrictive measures that some lawmakers argue could stifle the automotive market and technological innovations, particularly for alternatives to traditional fossil fuel vehicles.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 201 is mixed, with proponents claiming it safeguards consumer choice and enhances economic development opportunities, particularly in the natural gas sector. Supporters, primarily from conservative legislatures, view this as a step towards reducing bureaucratic hurdles that hamper market competition and consumer accessibility. Conversely, critics, including environmental advocates and some local government officials, argue that the bill undermines local governance and environmental protections, particularly regarding air quality and climate initiatives. This struggle reflects broader national debates on energy policy and regulatory authority.

Contention

Notable contention points include the rejection of California's emissions standards and the potential backlash from environmental groups who argue that adopting such regulations would have aligned Ohio with progressive climate action efforts. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the impact of such legislation on local policies aimed at addressing climate change and public health-related vehicle emissions. The clash between state and local control highlights ongoing tensions over regulatory powers and the significance of local governance in addressing community-specific environmental issues.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OH SB121

Revise the natural gas infrastructure development rider

OH SB573

Relating to restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source

OH AB142

Restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source.

OH SB212

Restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source.

OH HB4434

Relating to restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source

OH HB2192

Relating to restrictions on use or sale of motor vehicles based on power source

OH HB1258

Consumer Goods - Restrictions Based on Energy Source - Prohibition (Energy Equality Act of 2025)

OH A08362

Prohibits certain restrictions on motor vehicle sales or use.

OH ACA5

Motor vehicles: fuel taxes, sales and use taxes, and fees: expenditure restrictions.

OH SB2601

Utility Service; prevent government restrictions based on energy source required.

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