Message From the House: With the Majority

State Representatives Ty Mathews and Mark Hiner discuss House Bill 332 and the creation of the Small Defense Business Linked Deposit Program in this episode of Message From the House. As Ohio’s defense sector continues to expand, small manufacturers and subcontractors often struggle with high borrowing costs. HB 332 aims to bridge that gap by leveraging state treasury resources to provide reduced-rate loans to eligible Ohio-based defense businesses.

State Representatives Bernie Willis and Adam Holmes discuss House Resolution 304 and Ohio’s pursuit of the FAA’s Advanced Air Mobility Integration Pilot Program in this episode of Message From the House.

As emerging aviation technologies like electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft continue to develop, states are competing to attract federal investment and pilot programs. HR 304 signals Ohio’s readiness to lead in this space, leveraging the state’s existing aerospace infrastructure, partnerships with the Ohio Department of Transportation, and a strong manufacturing workforce to bring Advanced Air Mobility to communities across the state.

Representatives D.J. Swearingen and Tex Fischer discuss the E-Verify Workforce Integrity Act (House Bill 246) in this episode of Message From the House.

The representatives break down how this legislation protects Ohio’s skilled trades, its focus on the state’s key construction industry, and how the free E-Verify system works in practice for employers.

In this episode:

[00:04] – Introductions and Legislative Backgrounds

[01:43] – Focus on Jobs, Workforce, and the Skilled Trades

[02:40] – The Origins and Purpose of House Bill 246

[04:26] – How the E-Verify Program Works for Employers

[06:03] – Why Workforce Integrity is Essential for Ohio

[13:45] – Legislative Priorities: Anti-Fraud Initiatives & Tax Reforms

In this episode of Message From the House, we are joined by Representatives Thaddeus Claggett and Heidi Workman to discuss the evolving landscape of technology in our state. As leaders on the Technology & Innovation Committee, they share insights into the legislative approach to Artificial Intelligence.

In this episode, we cover:
The Future of AI: A look at the potential threats and transformative opportunities AI presents to the public and private sectors.
Committee Goals: The mission of the Technology & Innovation Committee and how they are working to keep our state at the forefront of digital advancement.
Policy & Progress: How current legislative efforts aim to balance innovation with necessary safeguards.

State Representatives Haraz Ghanbari and Thomas Hall share a legislative update on critical public safety and mental health initiatives for 2026.