The legislative process in Ohio can move very quickly or very slowly, skipping steps or doing some steps multiple times. This guide is meant to show a general idea of how the process normally works.
1. Bill is introduced
Any member of the legislature can introduce a bill by presenting it to the Clerk’s office.
The Legislative Service Commission (LSC) helps legislators research and write bills. LSC has some public resources here.
2. Assigned to Committee
The Rules and Reference Committee assigns bills and is typically comprised of the Chamber’s leaders and chaired by the Speaker of the House or Senate President. The bill is typically assigned to a committee based on the subject matter.
Usually, a bill will have at least 3 hearings before a vote. For a more detailed guide on the full committee process in Ohio, click here.
3. Sponsor Hearing
The bill’s author(s) will present testimony to the committee and answer any questions they may have.
4. Proponent/ IP Hearing
Interested parties (IPs) in favor of the bill submit testimony and can choose to present it during the committee hearing.
To learn more about testimony, how to write it, and when to submit it, click here. Interested parties often give suggestions or recommendations for amendments to improve the legislation.
5. Opponent/ IP Hearing/ Vote
Interested parties who do not want the bill to pass or who have serious concerns submit public testimony.
6. To the Floor
If the bill passes the committee, the next step is for it to be referred to the floor, where all members debate, offer amendments, and vote on its passage. The Rules and Reference Committee and chamber leadership get to decide what bills are brought to the floors of their chambers.
7. To the other chamber
Steps 2-6 will repeat in the opposite chamber. If it passes the second chamber, proceed to step 8. Sometimes, “companion legislation” (identical legislation) is introduced at the same time to speed up the process in the other chamber.
8. Back to Original Chamber
The chamber of origin will vote on whether they agree with any changes made in the second chamber. If they agree, skip to step 10. If not, a conference committee will form.
9. Conference Committee
Conference committees are temporary joint committees that normally include the bill’s sponsor(s). In the case of disagreement, a small committee may be formed to work out a compromise, which both chambers will vote on again.
Conference committees are relatively rare- generally the chambers agree on changes.
10. Governor’s Desk
The Governor can veto an entire bill or will sign it into law within 10 days. The Governor can line-item veto bills with appropriations.
