Allow an August special election for certain purposes
Impact
The bill also includes critical provisions regarding the financial implications of such special elections. It states that the entire cost of the special election shall be charged to the political subdivision or taxing authority organizing the election. This provision ensures that local governments are responsible for financing their elections, which may impact budgeting decisions at the local level. Additionally, the bill introduces a significant appropriation of $20 million from the General Revenue Fund for the purpose of providing financial assistance to boards of elections, ensuring they have the necessary resources to conduct these elections effectively.
Summary
House Bill 144 seeks to amend section 3501.022 of the Ohio Revised Code, permitting political subdivisions or taxing authorities to hold a special election on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in August for specific circumstances. This amendment aims to streamline the election process for local governing bodies facing fiscal emergencies, enabling them to address urgent financial issues through direct voter engagement. The bill provides a clearer framework for holding elections under pressing financial conditions, potentially leading to quicker remedial actions for local entities.
Contention
While the bill appears to offer a much-needed solution for local governments in fiscal distress, it may raise concerns among some policymakers about the appropriateness of holding these special elections in August, traditionally a time of lower voter turnout. Critics may argue that such timing could undermine the democratic process, as fewer citizens may participate in these critical votes. Furthermore, the responsibility placed on local governments to fund these elections could lead to disparities in election access and support, depending on the financial health of each local entity.
Administration of elections; modifying permissible dates for certain elections; authorizing special elections called for certain purposes to be held on certain dates. Effective date.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.