COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio House of Representatives this week passed House Bill 291, legislation to establish the Ohio International Trade Commission.
The legislation was co-sponsored by state Reps. Nick Santucci of Niles, R-64th, and Ty Mathews of Findlay, R-83rd.
“Ohio’s economy is increasingly connected to markets around the world,” Santucci said in a news release. “This commission will help build stronger relationships with key international partners, opening doors for trade, investment, innovation and job creation that benefit communities across our state.”
The legislation would create a commission composed of legislators and individuals with expertise related to the commission’s designated partner nations. The commission would work to advance economic cooperation between the state and designated regions.
“Ohio has long been a leader in manufacturing, research and innovation,” Mathews said. “By formalizing these international partnerships, we are creating new avenues for collaboration that will help Ohio remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.”
The commission would be required to provide annual reports to the governor and legislative leadership outlining its activities and progress toward advancing Ohio’s international economic interests.
House Bill 291 now heads to the Ohio Senate for further consideration.