Ohio proposal would create commission to pursue trade ties

The commission would work to advance trade, research, exchanges, and other shared efforts with selected regions. The commission would work with up to eight regions it designates. The commission may choose other issues to advance. The commission would have to select its first regions within 90 days after this section takes effect. It may select new regions every four years, while representing no more than eight regions in total.

State and legislative officials, along with business and regional representatives, would serve on the commission. The commission would include members of both parties from the Ohio Senate and House, up to eight regional representatives, and representatives of the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and state departments with international trade offices. Some members would not vote, and all members would serve without pay. Initial members would have to be appointed within 90 days after this section takes effect.

The commission would report its activities and funding received to state leaders. The reports would go to the governor and legislative leaders; funding reports would also go to both legislative minority leaders. The first activities report would be due within 15 months after this section takes effect, with annual reports after that. Funding reports would be due February 1, 2026, and each February 1 after that.

The state treasurer could negotiate to buy certain foreign government bonds for the commission. The treasurer could use money in the commission's state treasury fund to buy bonds from designated regions, if the bonds meet the stated requirements. The commission may raise and accept money, but the text does not guarantee that funds will be available for its work.