State Representative Justin Pizzulli introduced the JobsOhio Transparency Act on Mar. 23, a bill intended to increase oversight and accountability for JobsOhio’s spending and economic development projects.
The proposed legislation comes after recent questions about a JobsOhio-sponsored podcast and the resignation of The Ohio State University’s former president. The bill aims to address public concerns by requiring regular audits, greater disclosure of partnerships, and stricter reporting standards for JobsOhio.
Key provisions include mandating that the State Auditor audit JobsOhio and its subsidiaries every two fiscal years, reviewing financial accuracy, legal compliance, and internal practices. The bill would also allow the State Controlling Board to withhold state funding from JobsOhio if it does not meet transparency requirements through a two-thirds vote. Additional measures require annual publication of sponsored corporations and media partnerships on the organization’s website, yearly testimony from the Chief Investment Officer before legislative finance committees with detailed reports on funded projects by county location, as well as public hearings and independent fair market valuations for any extension of enterprise acquisition projects.
“The people of Southern Ohio and other communities throughout the state deserve a fair shake from JobsOhio, and even after a years-long relationship full of promises, communities like mine have yet to see the job creation or investment they deserve,” said Rep. Pizzulli. “There must be public accountability and real transparency to deliver results for our constituents.”
JobsOhio is described as an entity created by the state that manages liquor profits to fund economic development initiatives.
Pizzulli has focused his efforts on defending life, protecting second amendment rights, and supporting economic prosperity in Southern Ohio according to the official site. He serves as state representative for Ohio’s 90th House District—which includes Scioto County as well as Adams County and parts of Brown County—according to his official biography.
The legislation currently awaits assignment of a bill number and referral to a House Committee.
