Ohio political party bill sees additional changes

Ohio panel adds stricter ballot requirements to minor political party bill before passing it

11/6/2013

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A legislative committee has struck a compromise on an Ohio bill that sets rules for minor political parties.

The measure was poised to clear the Legislature last week. But senators rejected it after a series of House-made changes inadvertently cut a piece of the bill.

A committee restored the dropped piece today and made other changes.

Groups wanting to form parties next year would need petition signatures equal to a half-percent of the total votes cast in the most recent gubernatorial or presidential election. Thereafter, they must gather 1 percent.

To remain qualified, organizations must get 2 percent of total votes cast in the governor’s race next year, and 3 percent in 2015 for the following gubernatorial or presidential elections.

The chambers plan to vote on the proposal today.