NE Ohio Times

The Ohio House recently passed House Bill 1, which bans foreign nationals from contributing to ballot initiatives. State Rep. Sarah Fowler Arthur (R-Ashtabula) announced the legislation's passage.

Under current state and federal law, foreign nationals are prohibited from donating to political candidates, but there are no such restrictions on ballot issues. By extending the existing laws to include state ballot issues, this legislation aims to protect Ohio’s election integrity and prevent foreign influence from swaying election results.

“Foreign money is an unnecessary outside influence that should be kept out of Ohio elections,” said Fowler Arthur.

House Bill 1 will:

- Prohibit direct and indirect contributions from foreign nationals;

- Ban the spending, including independent expenditures, of funds tied to foreign nationals; and

- Ensure independent investigatory and enforcement power by the Ohio Attorney General.

Additionally, the Ohio House passed House Bill 2, which delays the deadline for a major political party to certify its presidential and vice-presidential candidates for the 2024 general election. This measure ensures that candidates from both major political parties appear on Ohio’s ballots.

“House Bill 2 ensures that every Ohioan has the opportunity to support the candidate of their choosing,” said Fowler Arthur.

Both measures were signed into law by Governor DeWine.

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