Lawmakers to change JobsOhio bill to address transparency concerns

COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio governor's planned nonprofit development entity would have to report travel expenses paid by corporations under changes to the JobsOhio bill being discussed in the state Senate.

Lawmakers sponsoring the measure told a Senate committee Tuesday they are working to make the semi-private entity more transparent, including requiring public notices for the four public meetings of the JobsOhio board. Its minutes would also be disclosed.

The legislation that passed the House last week does not spell that out.

The changes are aimed at addressing concerns that the bill would keep taxpayers in the dark as the board negotiates with businesses to create jobs.

Rep. Mike Duffey says travel expenses would be reported quarterly, and the Ohio Ethics Commission would be authorized to investigate JobsOhio.