Ohio House Bill HB370

Ohio 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/24
• Report Pass: 6/25/24
• Engrossed: 6/26/24

Caption

Regards ODOT responsibility for state highways in municipalities

Impact

The bill allows for greater collaboration between ODOT and local municipalities by establishing clear protocols for sharing costs associated with highway projects. Municipal corporations are given the authority to collaborate with ODOT, proposing resolutions that outline cost-sharing arrangements for construction and maintenance of highways. This cooperation is seen as a way to address the urgent need for improved infrastructure while also providing municipalities with a means to contribute financially to state projects relevant to their jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill 370 focuses on clarifying and amending the responsibilities of the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) regarding state highways situated within municipalities. This legislative effort seeks to define the extent of the director of transportation's authority when it comes to highway construction, maintenance, and improvement, particularly in urban and village areas. By specifying these responsibilities, the bill aims to enhance coordination between municipal authorities and state transportation officials, ensuring efficient management of highway resources.

Contention

One point of contention that emerged during discussions surrounding HB 370 is the balance of authority between state and local governments. Some legislators expressed concerns that the bill might overextend state authority at the expense of local autonomy. The provisions that allow the director of transportation to proceed with projects without local consent, under certain circumstances, raised alarms about potential conflicts between state mandates and local governance. Advocates for local control argue that such provisions could undermine the ability of municipalities to make decisions that directly affect their communities.