Overview

• The Ohio Senate and House passed House Bill 15 by overwhelming margins, sending it to Governor Mike DeWine for potential approval within 10 days.
• The bill seeks to promote new natural gas power plants by reducing property taxes on newly built energy infrastructure and expediting permitting processes.
• HB15 repeals ratepayer subsidies for coal and solar projects established under the scandal-tainted House Bill 6, marking a significant policy shift.
• Utilities would face stricter oversight, including mandatory rate reviews every three years, and lose the ability to impose fees via 'electric security plans.'
• Supporters view the bill as a response to Ohio's growing energy needs, while critics argue further reforms are necessary to address systemic issues.