State and local governments may not always be in forefront of your mind, but their decisions directly impact your daily life in ways you might not realize. Understanding how these levels of government affect key issues like economic growth, public safety, and your college tuition rates can help you see why learning about them and staying informed is so important.

Your Job Prospects 

Think about the jobs available in your community and the wages they offer. State and local governments are responsible for establishing sustainable tax rates, funding infrastructure like roads, rail, and airports (that support business growth), and subsidizing job training programs that prepare the workforce. For example, if your local government attracts new companies to your area, it can create more job opportunities and stimulate economic growth.

Your Tuition Bill 

Speaking of workforce development, state governments subsidize state universities and therefore influence tuition rates. The cost of attending a state university can vary widely depending on the state’s funding priorities and its ability to make universities more efficient and accountable, directly affecting your ability to afford a quality education.

Your Safety

Effective public safety policies can reduce crime rates and make communities safer. State and local governments can invest in police departments, implement community policing, fund mental health services, and support neighborhood watch programs. Additionally, an effective criminal justice system that keeps violent criminals off the streets is key. By focusing on these measures, governments can create a more secure environment for everyone.

Your Environment  

Every time you breathe clean air or drink clean water, you benefit from the environmental policies set by your state and local governments. These governments regulate emissions, manage waste disposal, and promote sustainable practices. Local initiatives, such as building metroparks, expanding urban green spaces, or restricting development in flood-prone areas, directly contribute to a healthier and safer environment.

Your Freedom

Beyond job prospects, safety, and the environment, state and local governments also impact your personal freedoms. These governments establish policies on issues that directly affect your rights and day-to-day choices. From setting laws about public assembly to creating regulations that affect personal privacy and how businesses operate, state and local decisions are key for maintaining your freedoms.

For example, if you’re passionate about a particular social issue—such as free speech, gun ownership, or reproductive rights—it’s important to know that many of the laws governing these rights are made at the state or local level. By staying informed and participating in state and local elections, you have the power to influence decisions that protect or expand your personal freedoms. Therefore, understanding state and local governments empowers you to advocate for the rights and freedoms that matter most to you.

State and local governments shape these policies and many others that affect so many aspects of your life. By understanding and engaging with these levels of government, you can help ensure that your community reflects your values and meets your needs. Whether it’s through voting in state and local elections, attending city council meetings, or participating in community initiatives, your involvement is crucial for making your voice heard to help build a better future for yourself and your community.

You must register to vote or update your voter registration no later than 30 days before an election.

Keeping Your Registration Updated

Ensure your voter registration is up-to-date, especially if you have moved or changed your name.

You can check your registration status and update your information online through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website: https://voterlookup.ohiosos.gov/.

By taking these steps, you ensure your voice is heard in the democratic process. Remember, your vote matters!

From the schools we attend to the roads we travel, state and local governments shape the quality of our communities and the services we rely on every day. They influence our job prospects, protect (or infringe upon) our freedoms, and provide essential public services such as police, fire protection, and education. By learning how state and local governments operate, you can better understand how their decisions impact your life.

Remember, civic engagement is vital for a healthy democracy. Voting in local and state elections allows you to choose leaders who represent your priorities and influence decisions on critical issues like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Beyond voting, engaging in your community and participating in other civic activities help ensure your voice is heard.

By being informed and active participants in the political process, you can contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the policies that shape your daily life.

Government’s purpose is to establish a framework for order and justice, protect the rights and freedoms of individuals, and promote society’s general welfare. This includes keeping us safe and promoting economic stability. The government operates based on democratic principles, where elected officials create and enforce laws that reflect the will and needs of the people. Through its various branches and levels, the government seeks to balance individual liberties with the common good to foster a safe, fair, and prosperous society.

Maintaining Order & Security 

The fundamental role of government in maintaining order and security is essential for a stable society. Governments create and enforce laws to ensure that citizens can live in peace and safety. Police work to prevent and respond to crime, while courts handle legal disputes and ensure justice is served. Additionally, governments maintain military forces to protect the country from external threats. By keeping the peace and protecting citizens’ rights, the government helps create an environment where people can go about their daily lives without fear. This stability is important for the well-being and prosperity of any community.

A critical aspect of maintaining order is upholding the rule of law. The rule of law means that laws are applied equally to everyone, ensuring fairness and justice regardless of a person’s status or power. It prevents abuse of power by ensuring that government officials are also subject to the law. This principle is vital for protecting individual rights and maintaining public trust in the government. When the rule of law is upheld, it ensures that laws are clear, publicized, and stable. This helps to maintain a predictable and orderly society. By enforcing laws fairly and consistently, the government fosters a sense of justice and security, which is fundamental for a functioning democracy.

Protecting Freedom and Liberty

The American system of government is designed to protect and guarantee several fundamental freedoms, often referred to as individual liberties. These freedoms are enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, particularly in the Bill of Rights, which comprises the first ten amendments. These amendments as well as state constitutions outline specific protections and rights that the government cannot infringe upon without due process and valid justification.

Freedom generally refers to the ability to act without constraints or interference. It is the power to make choices and pursue one’s own path. Liberty, on the other hand, is more specific and often relates to the protection of individual rights within a structured society. Liberty emphasizes the legal and institutional protections that safeguard individuals’ ability to exercise their freedoms. Understanding both concepts is essential to grasp the foundations of democratic governance and the protections offered to individuals in a free society.

Civil rights, which are a critical aspect of liberty, refer to the rights of individuals to receive equal treatment and be free from discrimination in various settings, including public institutions and employment. These rights are protected under federal, state, and local laws and are essential for ensuring that all citizens can fully participate in society without facing unfair barriers.

Freedom of Speech and Press – The First Amendment guarantees the freedom of speech and the press, allowing individuals to express their opinions and share information without fear of government censorship. However, this freedom is not absolute; for example, it does not protect speech that incites violence or panic, such as falsely yelling fire in a crowded theater. These limits ensure a balance between free expression and public safety.

Freedom of Religion – The First Amendment also ensures freedom of religion, protecting individuals’ rights to practice any religion or none at all. It prevents the government from establishing an official religion or favoring one religion over another.

Freedom of Assembly and Petition – The First Amendment protects the right to peacefully assemble and petition the government for redress of grievances. This allows people to gather for protests, rallies, and other forms of collective action to express their views and seek changes.

Right to Bear Arms – The Second Amendment guarantees the right to bear arms, originally tied to the necessity of a well-regulated militia for the security of a free state. It allows individuals to own and carry weapons, with some regulations in place to protect public safety.

Protection Against Unreasonable Searches and Seizures – The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures by the government. It requires law enforcement to obtain a warrant, based on probable cause, before conducting searches.

Rights of the Accused – The Fifth and Sixth Amendments provide several protections for individuals accused of crimes. These include the right to know what you’re accused of, the right to a fair trial, protection against self-incrimination, the right to legal counsel, and protection against double jeopardy (being tried twice for the same crime).

Protection Against Cruel and Unusual Punishment – The Eighth Amendment prohibits excessive bail, excessive fines, and cruel and unusual punishment. This ensures that punishments are fair and proportionate to the crimes committed.

Right to Vote – The right to vote is a cornerstone of democracy, protected by several constitutional amendments. The Fifteenth Amendment prohibits denying the right to vote based on race, the Nineteenth Amendment guarantees women’s suffrage, and the Twenty-Sixth Amendment lowers the voting age to 18. This right ensures that citizens can participate in the electoral process and have a voice in their government.

These freedoms are guaranteed through a system of checks and balances within the American government, with states like Ohio playing a crucial role in protecting freedom and liberty through laws, regulations, and institutions. The state constitution outlines citizens’ fundamental rights, while the judicial system ensures these rights are upheld. Civic engagement and government participation are promoted, encouraging transparency and accountability. Understanding state government is essential, as Ohio’s legislative, executive, and judicial branches work together to create, implement, and interpret state laws, thereby safeguarding the freedoms and liberties of its people.

Promoting Society’s General Welfare 

Providing public services and infrastructure is a crucial role of the government. This means making sure people have access to essential services like education, healthcare, and transportation. Governments build and maintain schools, hospitals, roads, bridges, and public transportation systems to help communities run smoothly. They also ensure that clean water, sanitation, and waste management services are available to keep communities healthy and safe. By providing these services, the government helps improve the quality of life for all citizens and supports the overall development and progress of society.

Promoting economic stability and social welfare is another key role of government. Governments work to keep the economy strong and stable by creating a supportive business environment and regulating businesses when needed. They also create programs to help people who are struggling, like unemployment benefits, food assistance, and affordable housing. By making sure the economy is healthy and providing a safety net for those in need, the government helps reduce poverty and inequality.

Representing Citizens 

Representing citizens is another fundamental role of government, deeply rooted in democratic values. In a democracy, the government is elected by the people and works on their behalf. This means that citizens have the power to choose their leaders through free and fair elections. By representing everyone, the government ensures that diverse perspectives and needs are considered in decision-making. This inclusivity helps create policies that benefit a wide range of people, promoting fairness and equality. When everyone feels represented, it strengthens social cohesion and trust in the government, leading to a more stable and harmonious society.

Democracy also emphasizes transparency, accountability, and civic engagement. Governments are required to operate openly so that citizens can see and understand how decisions are made. Transparency is the practice of openly and honestly sharing information, actions, and decision-making processes with the public to ensure accountability and trust. Accountability means that government officials are responsible for their actions and must answer to the public. Civic engagement relates to ways citizens get involved in the political process, whether by voting, attending public meetings, or joining civic groups. By upholding these democratic values, the government builds public trust, holds officials accountable to the community, and empowers citizens to actively participate in shaping their society.   

When citizens know their voices matter, they are more likely to engage in civic activities and contribute positively to their communities. This active participation not only helps to address local issues more effectively but also strengthens the overall democratic process. By valuing and encouraging citizen involvement, the government can create a more dynamic and responsive political system that better serves the needs of all its people.

While all levels of government play important roles, the federal government has a much broader scope and handles many issues that state and local governments cannot address independently.

It’s important to understand how different levels of government operate within our system of federalism. Federalism is the division of power between the national government and the states. Our federal government was created when the states came together and ratified the Constitution, which applies to the entire nation. The Constitution outlines the powers of the federal government, and federal law is the highest law in the country. This reflects the principle of constitutionalism—the idea that government authority comes from and is limited by a fundamental law. In the United States, all government actions must conform to the Constitution, which both establishes the framework of government and protects individual rights.

However, states are not just parts of the federal government; they are independent entities that retain all powers not specifically given to the federal government by the Constitution, as stated in the Tenth Amendment. In contrast, local governments are subdivisions of the states and operate under the authority granted to them by the state government.

While we focus on the state and local levels throughout this book, knowing the basic structure of American government helps you understand who to turn to when you have issues or questions. It also makes it easier for you to get involved in your community and make informed decisions when voting or participating in civic activities. By knowing how each level of government works, you can better understand how policies and laws affect your daily life.

Representative Democracy

One of the primary ways Americans fulfill their civic responsibility is through participation in our representative democracy. This is a system of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf.

Representative democracy relies on elected officials to act in the best interests of the people. Ideally, this means that the diverse views and needs of the population are considered in governance. But it also requires citizens to communicate their views and needs to those in office.

The federal government of the United States is designed to handle national and international issues, ensuring a unified approach to governance across the country. It is organized into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial.

The legislative branch, known as Congress, holds the power of the purse and is responsible for making laws. The power of the purse refers to Congress’s authority to control government spending and allocate funds. Congress is divided into two parts: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Representatives and senators are elected by the people and work to pass laws that address national concerns such as defense, taxation, and interstate commerce.   

The executive branch is headed by the President, who is responsible for enforcing the laws passed by Congress. The President also acts as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces and conducts foreign policy by negotiating treaties and representing the United States in international matters. The executive branch includes various federal agencies and departments, each tasked with specific functions, such as the Department of Education and the Department of Transportation, to implement and manage federal policies and programs.   

The judicial branch, led by the Supreme Court, interprets the laws and ensures they are applied fairly. The Supreme Court has the power to review laws and executive actions to determine if they are constitutional. This system of checks and balances among the three branches ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful, maintaining a balance of power that is fundamental to the democratic system of the United States. By understanding how the federal government works, citizens can better grasp how national decisions are made and how these decisions impact their lives.

This section introduces you to the structure and functions of state government, focusing on its three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. Together, these branches form the framework of state government.

The legislative branch, composed of the state House of Representatives and the state Senate, controls spending and allocates funds. This gives them considerable power over the state’s priorities and actions. They also make laws covering a wide range of areas, including education, transportation, health, and public safety. For example, the legislature passes laws that determine school funding, establish state tax rates, and regulate public utilities. Through their legislative actions, they shape the daily lives of Ohioans by setting the rules and frameworks within which the state operates.

The executive branch, headed by the governor, is tasked with implementing and enforcing state laws. The governor oversees state agencies and appoints heads of departments such as education, transportation, and health, ensuring that these departments function effectively and efficiently. In times of emergency, such as natural disasters or public health crises, the governor has the authority to issue executive orders to manage and mitigate the situation swiftly. This branch ensures that the laws created by the legislature are put into action and that the state’s operations run smoothly.

The judicial branch interprets state laws and ensures that justice is served. State courts handle civil and criminal cases, as well as appeals from lower courts. The state supreme court, for example, has the power to rule on the constitutionality of state laws, ensuring they align with both the state and U.S. Constitutions. This branch plays a crucial role in maintaining the rule of law and protecting the rights of citizens by providing a mechanism to resolve disputes and review the legality of legislative and executive actions.

Understanding the structure and function of these branches is essential for grasping how state government operates and impacts the lives of its citizens.

Now, what do local governments do?

Cities, townships, and villages are responsible for providing services directly to Ohio residents, such as police and fire protection, building inspection, sanitation, and road maintenance. They can pass ordinances (i.e. local laws) related to zoning (e.g., determining what can be built and where), public safety, noise control, property maintenance, and other matters. These regulations are designed to maintain order, protect public health and safety, and ensure the general welfare of the community. Ordinances are enforced by local authorities and can result in fines or other penalties if violated.

Counties in Ohio manage broader services that span multiple municipalities, such as countywide transportation systems, public health services, and libraries. They are often called the “branch offices” of state government because they carry out state-mandated functions at the local level. For example, counties oversee election administration and play a crucial role in court administration, supporting the operation of common pleas courts, probate courts, and other judicial functions within the county.

Figure 1: Map of Ohio’s 88 Counties

Did you know school districts are a type of local government?

School districts are responsible for the administration and operation of public schools within a specific geographic area. Each school district is governed by an elected board of education, which sets policies, approves budgets, and oversees the district’s superintendent. School districts are tasked with ensuring educational standards, managing school facilities, hiring teachers and staff, and providing transportation for students. They are funded through a combination of local property taxes, state funding, and federal grants.

This semester you will also learn about other types of special districts.

In Ohio, special districts are a type of local government created to provide specific services or programs within an area defined by the state legislature. Unlike general-purpose governments, special districts focus on a single function or a set of related functions. Examples of special districts include library districts, regional water and sewer authorities, and transit and port authorities. Each special district has its own governing body, which is established by state law and varies based on the type of district. These districts can span multiple municipalities or be part of a single local government, allowing them to address specialized needs efficiently.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

In this chapter, we explored the fundamental purposes of government and how it is organized in the United States. The government’s main objectives are to establish order and justice, protect individual rights and freedoms, and promote the general welfare of society. This information empowers you to take the next step in learning about how you can participate in the democratic process.

Politics is the process by which individuals and groups decide on rules, laws, and policies that affect everyone. At its best, the goal of politics is to organize our collective lives in a way that helps us live together peacefully and share access to goods and services we could not secure alone. It involves discussion, debate, compromise, and above all, cooperation.

While politics has often been described as a struggle for power and resources, it does not always have to be framed as a contest with winners and losers. Political scientist Harold D. Lasswell defined politics as “who gets what, when, and how.” This definition highlights the distribution of resources and power, but it does not preclude fairness, balance, or mutual benefit.

Decisions about “who gets what” can be made through competition, but they can also be shaped by compromise and collaboration.

In practice, politics often requires people with different viewpoints to sit down together, find areas of agreement, and work toward solutions that balance competing needs. Power and resources can be shared within communities in ways that allow many voices to be heard and many interests to be met.

Cooperation does not erase conflict, but it creates space to focus on common goals rather than permanent divides.

By examining the workings of state and local government, we see politics as more than a series of struggles. The compromises and cooperative decisions made in city councils and the General Assembly demonstrate how people with diverse perspectives can find common ground and create policies that serve the broader community.

References

Barbour, Christine, and Gerald C. Wright. 2015. Keeping the Republic: Power and Citizenship in American Politics. 7th ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: CQ Press.

Lasswell, Harold D. 1936. Politics: Who Gets What, When, How. New York: Whittlesey House, McGraw-Hill Book Co.

Political values are the basic beliefs and principles that shape how people think about government, politics, and society. They guide opinions on issues, and they influence how individuals vote, engage in civic life, and view public policies.

Let’s learn more about our own personal political values. What do you care about?

Kenneth Janda, another well-known political scientist, outlines three core political values: freedom, order, and equality. These values form the foundation of political ideologies and influence how individuals and societies prioritize policies and governance.

Understanding your political values and the issues that matter most to you is a big part of civic engagement. Your political values shape your opinions, influence your decisions, and guide your actions as a citizen. They help you determine what you believe is the best way to organize society and govern communities. Identifying these values can be a reflective and enlightening process. 

The Right to Develop Your Own Political Values 

In the United States, every citizen has the right to develop their own political values. This right is enshrined in the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech and the freedom to express one’s beliefs and opinions. The value of open and rigorous debate is central to American democracy, allowing diverse perspectives to be heard and considered. Engaging in discussions about political ideas helps you refine your own views and understand those of others, fostering a more informed and active citizenry.

Finding Your Political Values & Exploring the Issues You Care About 

To identify your political values, consider what principles and ideals are most important to you. Do you prioritize individual freedoms or collective responsibilities? How do you view the role of government in addressing economic and social issues? Reflect on your experiences, education, and the influences in your life that have shaped your beliefs. Pay attention to the issues that evoke strong feelings or compel you to act, as these are often tied to your core values.

Think about the issues that you are passionate about. These might include education, healthcare, the environment, economic policy, social justice, or poverty and housing. Understanding which issues matter most to you will help you engage more effectively in political discussions and advocacy. Being informed about these topics enables you to make educated decisions when voting, participating in community activities, or engaging with policymakers.

This exercise is for your personal exploration. It won’t be graded, and the instructor won’t see your results. Use this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of your political values and how they align with different perspectives within the American political spectrum.

You need reliable information to inform your opinions and decisions about politics. But have you ever thought about where you get the information from?

The problem with much of the information circulating these days is that it can be biased, misleading, or downright false. This misinformation can lead to polarized opinions, mistrust in public institutions, and poor decision-making among citizens. By becoming more critical about your information sources, you can ensure that your views and actions are based on accurate information.

Information literacy in politics is the ability to effectively locate, evaluate, and use political information to make informed decisions, engage in civic discourse, and participate in democratic processes. Let’s explore how you can stay informed.

Understand the difference between fact-based reporting and opinion content. Fact-based reporting aims to present verified information and events as they are, adhering to journalistic standards of objectivity and accuracy. This type of reporting is typically found in the main sections of newspapers and in the news segments of cable news channels. On the other hand, opinion programming on cable news and the editorial section in newspapers provide analysis and viewpoints that reflect the author’s or the network’s perspective. While these can offer valuable insights, they are inherently subjective and should be approached with a critical mind to distinguish between facts, personal opinions, and the goals of the information providers.

Diversify your sources. To get a well-rounded view of political issues, you should read news from multiple outlets. This means not just sticking to one newspaper or TV channel but exploring a variety of reputable sources, including newspapers, TV stations, and online platforms. Reading from sources that span the ideological spectrum can provide a more balanced perspective and help you understand different arguments and viewpoints.

Don’t let algorithms force you into an echo chamber. An echo chamber is an environment where a person only encounters information or opinions that reflect and reinforce their own. This can be a negative thing because it limits exposure to diverse perspectives and critical thinking, potentially leading to a skewed or biased understanding of issues. Social media applications use algorithms that show you content similar to what you’ve already engaged with, which creates echo chambers. To counter this, diversify your feed by following a broad range of individuals, organizations, and media outlets to expose yourself to different viewpoints and information.

Prioritize reputable sources. Local newspapers and TV stations are valuable to the extent they adhere to rigorous journalistic standards and implement strong fact-checking processes. They often provide insights into regional issues and politics that the national media fail to cover.

Check for bias and verify information. Always be on the lookout for bias in what you consume. Fact-checking websites like FactCheck.org, PolitiFact, and Snopes can help verify the accuracy of claims and statements made in the news. It’s also wise to cross-reference stories by checking multiple sources to confirm their validity, especially if a story appears in only one outlet or lacks verification.

Whenever possible, read primary sources such as government reports, official statements, and public records. These documents provide direct insights without the filter of media interpretation. Additionally, follow official communications from political figures and institutions through their websites or verified social media accounts for firsthand information.

Always question your information sources. Consider who wrote the article, their potential biases, and what evidence they provide to support their claims. Articles that cite sources, provide data, and link to original documents or studies are generally more reliable.

By following these steps, you can enhance your ability to find accurate information, make informed political decisions, and engage effectively in civic activities. Becoming a critical consumer of information is not just about being well-informed; it’s about being able to discern the quality of the information you consume and understanding its impact on your perspectives and actions.

Content creators are individuals or companies who produce and share various forms of content, such as videos, memes, and other posts, on social media. These creators often build a dedicated following by posting content that resonates with their target audience, which allows them to become influencers within their specific niche or industry. Influencers have the power to affect their followers’ opinions and decisions.

Just because someone has a popular podcast or TikTok account doesn’t mean they care about the facts or promote a nuanced view of a policy problems

Content creators often prioritize popularity, clicks, and revenue over accuracy and in-depth arguments. Negative content—focusing on fear, outrage, or conflict—and polarizing content—emphasizing extreme viewpoints—often outperform positive content. While this content is not always false, it can mislead and manipulate viewers by distorting reality.  

Unfortunately, some content creators peddle misinformation and, worse, manufacture disinformation. Misinformation is incorrect or misleading information spread without the intent to deceive, often occurring when people share false information they believe to be true. Disinformation, on the other hand, is deliberately false information spread with the intent to deceive or manipulate. Disinformation is flat-out lying. Both can be harmful, but understanding the intent behind the information can help you better assess and respond to it.  

Always approach online content critically, check sources, and be mindful of the impact of the content you engage with. This way, you can make more informed decisions and avoid contributing to the spread of false information.

Remember, just because a friend reposts something doesn’t mean it’s true. It’s important to verify information before believing or sharing it. When you spot content that you’re unsure about, fact-check it on websites like FactCheck.org, PolitiFact, and Snopes. These sites investigate and debunk false or misleading claims, rumors, and hoaxes across various topics, providing evidence-based and contextualized analysis with references to original sources.

Check out Snopes at: https://www.snopes.com/

By consuming different media sources, you gain access to a range of perspectives and in-depth analysis. Here are some key Ohio-based media sources to consider: 

The State of Ohio – A weekly program, produced by Ohio Public Television Stations (Ohio PBS), covers the political and governmental issues impacting the state.

Columbus on the Record – A weekly program aired by WOSU Public Media in Columbus. This show brings together a panel of journalists and experts to analyze local and state government issues, politics, and public policy.

The Ohio Channel – Often referred to as the C-SPAN of Ohio, The Ohio Channel provides direct access to government proceedings like the Ohio General Assembly, Supreme Court sessions, and other significant events.

In Focus: Ohio – An Ohio-specific 30-minute public affairs program. Spectrum News 1 also provides daily Northeast Ohio news.

Major newspapers include: Cleveland.com (aka The Plain Dealer); Dayton Daily News; The Cincinnati Enquirer; The Columbus Dispatch; and The Toledo Blade.

Those newspapers are for-profit entities, though. Other outlets are nonprofits with a clearer public service mission. Signal Cleveland is funded by the philanthropic community of Greater Cleveland. Cleveland’s Ideastream Public Media is also a nonprofit and reports on and aggregates Ohio-related government and politics news. And the City Club of Cleveland regularly broadcasts panel discussions, debates, and other programs.

By engaging with different media sources, students and professionals can stay current on issues and developments in state and local government. This list is not exhaustive, so continue to seek new sources and critically evaluate the information you consume.

Civic engagement is about improving your community and influencing the decisions that affect your life. By participating in these different ways, you can help shape the future and make a positive impact. 

In this chapter, we learned about the basics of politics, understanding our political values, and how media shapes our opinions. Politics is about organizing society and deciding who gets what resources and power. By understanding how these decisions are made, we see why it’s important to make our voices heard. Studying state and local governments helps us understand how power and resources are managed in our communities, which can improve our civic engagement skills.  

We also talked about identifying our political values, like freedom, order, and equality. These values guide our actions and decisions as citizens. Knowing what we care about most helps us understand our priorities and how they shape our views on government and policy. This self-awareness makes us better at discussing and advocating for political issues, ensuring our participation in democracy is informed and meaningful.  

Lastly, we looked at how media bias and sensationalism can influence our view of reality. By learning to critically evaluate the information we see and understand the motives behind it, we can make better decisions and avoid spreading misinformation. This chapter gives us the tools to navigate the political world, stand up for our beliefs, and take an active role in the democratic process. Your informed civic engagement can make a positive impact on your community and beyond.

Understanding the basics of Ohio’s history will give you important context for studying its government throughout the semester. This background will help you see how historical events and the state’s geography shaped today’s laws and policies.

The resulting state represents a cross-section of America, with many population centers.

By exploring Ohio’s history and geography, you will gain a deeper understanding of the factors that have shaped its government and policies. This knowledge will enhance your appreciation of Ohio’s political and social landscape, informing your civic engagement throughout the course.

The Ohio Constitution must follow the rules set by the United States Constitution and federal laws because the U.S. Constitution is the supreme law of the land. This principle, known as the Supremacy Clause, is found in Article VI of the U.S. Constitution. It means that federal laws and the U.S. Constitution take precedence over any conflicting state laws or constitutions. If there is a conflict between a state law or constitution and federal law, the federal law will override the state law.

This provides a unified legal framework across all states, maintaining consistency and protecting citizens’ rights under federal law. Therefore, Ohio’s state government must ensure that its constitution and laws align with federal regulations and constitutional principles.

However, that doesn’t mean the federal government controls every aspect of the state.

The founding fathers believed in a balance of power between the federal government and the states. They wanted a system where both levels of government had their own responsibilities but could also work together to govern effectively. This idea is clearly explained in the Federalist Papers.

Ohio’s path to statehood began as part of the Northwest Territory, established by the Northwest Ordinance of 1787. This ordinance set the framework for governance and the admission of new states to the Union. Ohio became the 17th state in 1803, with its first constitution reflecting the political ideals of the time, emphasizing legislative supremacy and limiting the governor’s power.   

The first Ohio Constitution, drafted in 1802, was influenced by the political climate of the time, particularly the dominance of Jeffersonian Republicans who favored a weaker executive branch. Unlike the U.S. Constitution, which established a strong presidency, Ohio’s 1802 Constitution limited the governor’s powers significantly, reflecting a preference for legislative supremacy. This was evident in the governor’s lack of veto power and the two-year term limits imposed on the office​​. Later, the governor was granted veto power and a four-year term of office.

The progressive era of the early 20th century brought further changes to Ohio’s constitution. The 1912 state constitutional convention added new amendments, which allowed for citizens to directly propose and vote on laws and constitutional changes. This shift towards direct democracy reflected broader national trends and demonstrated Ohio’s responsiveness to contemporary political movements.

Overall, Ohio’s history has profoundly shaped its constitution. The state constitution remains a living document capable of adapting to the changing needs and values of its citizens​.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press. Book available electronically via the CSU library.

Like the U.S. Constitution, the Ohio Constitution divides political power into three branches of government. This system is called the separation of powers. You may remember this idea from Chapter 2. Each branch has its own responsibilities, and together they help keep government balanced.

The Legislative Branch – Making the Laws

The legislative branch makes the laws. In Ohio, this branch is called the General Assembly. It is a bicameral legislature, which means it has two chambers: the House of Representatives and the Senate. Because the General Assembly decides how money is raised and spent, it is very influential.

The Executive Branch – Carrying Out the Laws

The executive branch is led by the governor. This branch enforces state laws and manages the day-to-day work of government. The governor oversees state agencies and appoints leaders of major departments such as education, transportation, and health.

One important power of the governor is the ability to issue executive orders, which are official directives issued by the governor that manages the operations of state government. Executive orders may be used during emergencies to mobilize resources, coordinate state agencies, or set temporary rules for public safety. They also can be used to reorganize agencies or give instructions on how laws should be carried out. However, they cannot create new laws or spend money that has not been approved by the legislature.

In addition to the governor, Ohio voters also elect other executive officials. These include the attorney general, the secretary of state, the auditor, and the treasurer. Each of these officers has specific duties that you will learn about later in this textbook.

The Judicial Branch – Interpreting the Laws

The judicial branch is made up of the courts. Judges interpret laws and make sure they are applied fairly. Ohio courts hear both civil and criminal cases and also review appeals from lower courts. The Ohio Supreme Court can decide whether a state law follows the state constitution. Ideally, this helps protect individual rights and ensures that the legislature and governor stay within their constitutional limits.

This section is important because it highlights how the Ohio Constitution protects your individual rights. Just like the U.S. Constitution, Ohio’s Bill of Rights ensures that you have freedoms and protections within the state.

While the federal Bill of Rights provides baseline protections applicable to all citizens across the United States, each state, including Ohio, has its own constitution and bill of rights to address specific issues and rights pertinent to its residents. This allows states to offer protections and freedoms that may go beyond those provided by the federal government. Additionally, a state Bill of Rights serves to reaffirm and reinforce federal protections, ensuring that residents’ rights are upheld at both state and federal levels.

Abortion is an explicit right in the Ohio Bill of Rights that is not found in the U.S. Bill of Rights as of 2023. Article I, Section 22of the Ohio Constitution gives people the right “to make and carry out one’s own reproductive decisions.”

While the state constitution guarantees you certain rights, certain responsibilities and obligations accompany your citizenship. You will recall we explored this notion of civic responsibility in Chapter 2. In this section, we will revisit those ideas as well as identifying the obligations that citizens must obey.

Let’s go back to Khan Academy content and explore our civic responsibilities and obligations in more detail.

One of the best books on the founding of Ohio is David McCullough’s The Pioneers. It tells the story of how a small group of New Englanders carried the ideals of the American Revolution westward into the Ohio Country after the passage of the Northwest Ordinance of 1787. The Northwest Ordinance was a law passed by Congress that created a system for governing and settling the land north of the Ohio River and east of the Mississippi River, an area known as the Northwest Territory. This territory later became the states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and part of Minnesota.

The book centers on the settlement of Marietta, the first permanent American town in what would become Ohio, and follows the people who led the effort.

The story begins with Manasseh Cutler, who lobbied Congress to pass the Northwest Ordinance. He was part of a group of Revolutionary War veterans in Massachusetts who wanted to open western lands for settlement, but they also insisted on setting important rules for the new territory:

• Complete freedom of religion so that people of all faiths could live and worship without interference.
• Public education for everyone, from grade school through college. This was a radical idea at the time since no existing state had such a system, and it later became the foundation for many state universities.
• A ban on slavery. This was seen as the most important and radical provision, rooted in the determination to make “all men are created equal” a reality rather than just words on paper.
• Respectful treatment of Native peoples. The ordinance called for good faith toward Indigenous nations and recognized their land rights, though in practice settlers often failed to uphold these principles.

Rufus Putnam, a Revolutionary War veteran, then led the Ohio Company of Associates in establishing Marietta. While Manasseh Cutler stayed in New England, his son Ephraim Cutler joined the settlement and later carried the group’s ideals into state politics. He fought to keep slavery out of Ohio’s constitution. Samuel Hildreth recorded the history and natural environment of the new state, which preserved the story for future generations.

The Pioneers – David McCullough

Ohio achieved some of the group’s goals, but not all. The promise of freedom of religion became part of the state’s constitution and was generally upheld. The commitment to public education also took root. Ohio established a system of common schools and later became home to a number of state universities, though access was not equal for all citizens at first. The ban on slavery was included in Ohio’s constitution of 1802, making it the first free state carved out of the Northwest Territory. However, Black residents still faced harsh restrictions, including “Black Laws” that limited their rights to vote, serve on juries, or attend public schools.

The call for good faith toward Native peoples was the principle least honored. Although the ordinance promised respect and fair treatment, the reality was a long history of broken treaties, forced removal, and violent conflict. Native communities were displaced as white settlers moved into the Ohio Country, and their rights were largely ignored in practice.

In this way, Ohio reflected both the ideals and the shortcomings of early American democracy: the state advanced freedom, education, and opposition to slavery, but it also fell short of its promises to provide equality and justice for all.

Another important figure in Ohio’s early history is Thomas Worthington, often called the “Father of Ohio Statehood.” Worthington was a leading advocate for Ohio’s statehood and helped to draft the state’s first constitution in 1802. He helped shape provisions that defined Ohio’s political framework and supported the development of public education.

Edward Tiffin, Ohio’s first governor, also made lasting contributions. As the state’s first chief executive, he oversaw the transition from territorial government to statehood and worked to implement the new constitution. Tiffin’s leadership helped establish the foundations of Ohio’s government at a critical moment in its early development.

Portrait of Edward Tiffin

Together, Worthington and Tiffin were central to Ohio’s founding era. Their work in writing the constitution, guiding the state’s admission to the Union, and setting the direction of its first government left a legacy that shaped Ohio’s political and institutional identity.

By exploring the foundations of Ohio’s government, you gain an understanding of civic engagement and your role in shaping your community. This chapter introduces you to the state’s diverse geography, historical milestones, and the structure of state and local governments. Learning about these elements helps you appreciate how Ohio’s laws and policies have developed over time, highlighting the importance of active participation in the democratic process.

The geography of Ohio, from the Lake Erie Plain to the Appalachian Plateaus, not only defines the state’s physical landscape but also influences its economic activities and development patterns. Understanding these geographical distinctions provides context for the state’s legislative decisions and economic policies. Additionally, studying Ohio’s history, including the Northwest Ordinance and the creation of its constitutions, shows how historical events have shaped the state’s governance. This historical perspective helps you see the significance of civic participation in maintaining and evolving these governance structures.

Finally, the chapter details the structure of Ohio’s state government, emphasizing the separation of powers and checks and balances between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. This knowledge is important for understanding how state laws are created, implemented, and interpreted. Recognizing the roles and responsibilities of each branch, along with your rights and responsibilities as a citizen, empowers you to engage in various civic activities. Whether it’s voting, staying informed, or participating in community service, your involvement is vital in contributing to the well-being and progress of Ohio’s society.

These factors interact in complex ways to shape an individual’s political beliefs and voting behavior over time. By understanding the process of political socialization, we can better comprehend how people form their political identities and participate in the democratic process.

Reference

Janda, Kenneth, Jeffrey M Berry, and Jerry Goldman. 2012. The Challenge of Democracy. 11th ed. Boston, MA: Wadsworth.

Party affiliation (or party identification) refers to how people identify with or lean toward one of the two major political parties. Recent national survey data from 2024-2025 shows clear generational patterns that also help explain voting behavior in Ohio.

Younger Americans, especially those in Gen Z, are more likely to identify as Democrats or lean Democratic. About two-thirds of voters in this group fall into the Democratic camp, while about one-third lean Republican. Voters in their late twenties show a similar pattern, though the gap is slightly narrower. People in their thirties still lean Democratic overall, but the margin is smaller, with Republicans picking up more support.

By middle age, the balance is nearly even. Voters in their forties and fifties are about evenly split between the two parties. Among older generations, especially those 60 and above, Republicans hold an advantage. This shift reflects a long-term trend where younger generations begin with stronger ties to the Democratic Party, while older generations lean more Republican.

Political culture refers to the shared values, attitudes, and beliefs that shape how people view and interact with their government. It’s not about opinions on specific issues—like public opinion—but about the deeper norms and expectations that influence how citizens and leaders behave in a political system.  

For example, the political culture in Cleveland or Akron may differ from rural areas of Ohio. In cities like Cleveland and Columbus, people often prioritize issues such as public transit, affordable housing, and economic development because they live in densely populated areas with diverse communities. Residents may also be more likely to support policies that address social justice or environmental sustainability, reflecting urban priorities.  

In rural Ohio, however, political culture might emphasize values such as self-reliance, local control, and preserving traditions. Issues such as agriculture, land use, and access to healthcare often take center stage, as these are more relevant to daily life in rural areas. People in these communities may also have different expectations for government involvement, preferring smaller, more limited roles compared to urban residents.  

These differences in political culture help explain why priorities, voting patterns, and government policies can vary across regions, even within the same state. Understanding political culture provides insight into why people support certain leaders or policies and how political systems respond to diverse needs.

Understanding voter behavior in Ohio elections requires a close look at the differences between rural, suburban, and urban areas. Each of these regions has unique characteristics that influence how people vote and what issues they care about, which help to explain why Republicans consistently win statewide.

Rural Areas 

Rural areas in Ohio are characterized by smaller populations, less diversity, and a greater focus on agriculture and local businesses. These regions comprise approximately 30% of Ohio’s population. Voters in rural areas tend to prioritize issues like farming policies, land use, and local economic development. They often support Republican candidates who advocate for limited government, lower taxes, and traditional values. Rural areas consistently show strong Republican support, significantly impacting statewide elections.

Small Towns and Small Cities

In addition to rural communities, smaller towns and cities such as Ashtabula, Lima, Steubenville, and Warren are increasingly aligning with Republican voting patterns. These areas, while more urbanized than rural communities, share similar economic and social concerns, which often lead them to favor Republican candidates. The growing Republican support in these smaller towns and cities plays a significant role in shaping the political landscape and impacting statewide elections.

Ashtabula, Trumbull, and Mahoning counties are notable examples of areas where voters have shifted strongly toward Republican candidates. Between 2012 and 2020, voter support in these counties shifted by 30%, moving from favoring the Democratic presidential candidate to favoring the Republican candidate. This represents dramatic realignment in voter preferences.

Suburban Areas

Suburban areas, which are the communities surrounding major cities, are home to about 50% of Ohio’s population. These regions include a mix of residents, including middle-class families, professionals, and increasingly diverse populations. Suburban areas are often considered key swing areas in Ohio elections due to this variability in voter preferences. Suburban voters might be concerned with issues such as education quality, property taxes, and local development.

Their political preferences can be more varied, sometimes leaning toward Republican candidates due to concerns about taxes and regulation, but also showing support for Democratic candidates who address social issues and education. However, suburban voters have increasingly voted Republican in recent elections.

Urban Areas 

Urban areas in Ohio, like Cleveland, Columbus, and Cincinnati, tend to have higher population densities and are more diverse in terms of race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. These areas, which house approximately 20% of Ohio’s population, often prioritize issues such as public transportation, affordable housing, and social services. Urban voters are more likely to support Democratic candidates who advocate for progressive policies on social issues and government intervention in the economy. In recent elections, Democratic support has increased in Columbus and Cincinnati but has actually decreased in Cleveland and Cuyahoga County.

Why It Matters 

The rural-suburban-urban dynamic is critical in Ohio elections because it shapes the political landscape. Candidates and political parties must tailor their messages to address the specific concerns of voters in these different regions. Rural areas heavily favor Republicans, while suburban areas can swing between parties, making them crucial battlegrounds. Urban areas often support Democrats, but turnout and engagement can vary, influencing overall election outcomes.

What’s happening in Ohio follows a nationwide trend. Check out this Pew Research Center report.

References

https://www.pewresearch.org/social-trends/2018/05/22/what-unites-and-divides-urban-suburban-and-rural-communities/   

https://www.statenews.org/news/2023-11-20/ohios-diversity-divide-urban-areas-are-diversifying-but-rural-areas-arent    

https://urban-extension.cfaes.ohio-state.edu/about

Relevance of the Five Ohio’s Model Today 

While the Five Ohio’s model may seem obsolete for predicting statewide political performance, it still offers valuable insights. Different parts of Ohio continue to have distinct economic and social priorities; for example, industrial policy remains crucial in Northeast Ohio, while agricultural policy is vital in Northwest and Southeast Ohio. Understanding these regional differences helps explain why certain issues resonate more in specific areas, influencing campaign strategies and voter turnout.

Over the years, parties such as the Libertarian Party, Green Party, and Constitution Party have sought to influence Ohio’s political discourse and policy debates. These third parties operate outside the two dominant political parties, focusing on specific issues or alternative ideologies not fully addressed by the Democrats or Republicans. They aim to provide voters with additional choices in the political landscape.

The legal hurdles for third parties have been substantial, requiring them to collect a large number of signatures to get on the ballot and to achieve a certain percentage of the vote to maintain their status. In 2006, a federal court ruling made it easier for third parties to access the ballot, leading to a brief period where multiple third parties were represented in Ohio elections. However, subsequent legislation and court rulings have continued to complicate ballot access for these parties.

While third parties rarely win major offices, they can impact elections by drawing votes away from major party candidates and bringing attention to specific issues and perspectives that might otherwise be overlooked.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 9 – Direct Democracy in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

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This information was shared in the first chapter, but let’s again make sure you know how to register to vote.    

Registering to vote is a crucial step in participating in the democratic process. It gives you the power to influence decisions that affect your community and country. By voting, you can help elect leaders and shape policies that align with your values and interests.

One of the easiest ways to register to vote is online through the Secretary of State’s website. Click here for more information: https://olvr.ohiosos.gov/.

Remember, you must be a citizen and 18 years old or older.

Now that everybody knows how to register, let’s learn about political culture.

This chapter explored Ohio’s two-party system and the factors that shape voter behavior. We examined the core beliefs of the Republican and Democratic parties in Ohio. Republicans generally advocate for limited government, traditional values, economic conservatism, and Second Amendment rights. In contrast, Democrats emphasize social justice and equality, environmental sustainability, progressive social policies, and healthcare access. These distinct ideological stances play a significant role in shaping policy debates and electoral outcomes in the state.   

Reflecting on the section about political socialization can help you understand how your own political beliefs have developed. By examining influences such as family, education, peer groups, and media, you can gain insights into what shapes your views and values. This self-awareness can enhance your civic engagement by allowing you to make more informed decisions, engage in meaningful political discussions, and advocate for issues that matter to you.

To explain Republican dominance in statewide races, we introduced the rural-suburban-urban dynamic model. This model highlights how rural areas, with their smaller populations and traditional values, consistently support Republican candidates. Suburban areas, which are home to a mix of middle-class families and professionals, often swing between parties but have leaned more Republican in recent years due to concerns about taxes and regulation. Urban areas, which are more diverse and densely populated, tend to support Democratic candidates, but their impact is often diluted by the strong Republican support in rural and suburban regions. Understanding this dynamic is key to explaining the current political trends in Ohio.

The legislative branch at the federal level is called the U.S. Congress, a term established by the United States Constitution, to emphasize its role in representing the entire nation and making federal laws. In contrast, the legislative branch at the state level in Ohio is called the General Assembly, a term rooted in historical tradition dating back to colonial times. Early colonial governments often referred to their legislative bodies as General Assemblies.

This distinction between names underscores the different scopes of authority, with Congress handling national issues and the General Assembly addressing state-specific matters. 

Term limits for Ohio state legislators present both advantages and disadvantages. On the positive side, term limits can promote fresh perspectives and new ideas in the legislature, reduce the potential for entrenched political power, and encourage politicians to focus on their current duties rather than long-term career prospects.

However, they also have notable drawbacks, such as the loss of experienced lawmakers who have developed expertise and relationships crucial for effective governance. Additionally, frequent turnover can lead to a reliance on lobbyists and bureaucrats for institutional knowledge, potentially undermining legislative independence and continuity. Neither lobbyists nor government employees are directly held to account by the voters, whereas legislators are.

While term limits prevent members from serving more than eight consecutive years in either the House or Senate, they can bounce back and forth. For example, Matt Huffmanserved in the House for eight years, then the Senate for eight years, and was then reelected to the House in 2024. 

Apportionment of Seats/Districts 

Seats in both chambers of the Ohio legislature are apportioned by population. Legislators in the House represent smaller districts with fewer constituents, while senators represent larger districts.

Reference

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 2 – The Legislative Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus, OH, p. 16-18.

Ohio, like the rest of the United States, operates primarily under a two-party system consisting of the Republican and Democrat parties. We learned about the two-party system in the last chapter, but let’s explore how this system affects the General Assembly. Both the state House and Senate are currently controlled by strong Republican majorities.

Republicans in Ohio 

Republicans in the Ohio legislature can be categorized as fiscal conservatives, social conservatives, Trump Republicans, and more moderate Republicans, with Trump Republicans becoming the dominant voice within the party and encompassing both fiscal and social conservatism.

Fiscal Conservatives – These members advocate for limited government intervention in economic matters, emphasizing free-market principles, and supporting lower taxes and reduced government spending. They believe that free-market principles foster economic growth, innovation, and efficiency. Fiscal conservatives prioritize policies that reduce government debt and promote economic stability through restrained fiscal policies.   

Social Conservatives – Social conservatism is a key aspect of this group, emphasizing traditional social values and advocating for stability within communities. This includes supporting traditional family roles, opposing abortion, advocating for religious freedom, and promoting law and order. Social conservatives focus on maintaining cultural traditions and often support policies that reflect their moral and ethical beliefs.

Trump Republicans – Trump Republicans, who have become the dominant voice within the party, blend foundational aspects of fiscal and social conservatism. Inspired by President Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” movement, they also focus on populist and nationalist policies, often emphasizing strong border security, economic protectionism, and a more confrontational approach to political opponents and policies. Trump Republicans prioritize issues such as opposing transgender inclusion in sports and schools, and they actively campaign against the teaching of critical race theory in educational institutions. They are strong advocates for gun rights and are vocal about their commitment to President Trump’s priorities.

Moderate Republicans – These members support many conservative principles but also recognize the need for practical and sometimes bipartisan solutions. While they advocate for limited government intervention, they may support targeted government programs that address critical needs such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. Moderate Republicans uphold traditional values and individual responsibility but may also support progressive stances on issues like criminal justice reform or environmental conservation. This balanced approach allows them to appeal to a broader range of voters and work towards practical solutions.

This categorization provides a nuanced understanding of the different priorities within the Ohio Republican Party.

Democrats in Ohio 

Democrats in Ohio generally fall into two categories: progressive Democrats and moderate Democrats.

Progressive (or Liberal) Democrats – These members advocate for government policies that promote social justice, economic equality, and environmental sustainability. Social justice initiatives aim to create a fair and equitable society where all individuals have equal access to opportunities, resources, and rights. This includes addressing inequalities related to race, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Progressives often support increased government intervention in the economy to provide public services such as healthcare, education, and social safety nets, which often require tax increases to fund. They prioritize civil rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s rights, including access to reproductive healthcare. Additionally, they emphasize combating climate change, supporting comprehensive immigration reform, expanding voting rights, and advocating for gun control measures.   

Moderate Democrats – These members advocate for a more balanced approach to government policies, blending progressive ideals with practical solutions that can gain bipartisan support. While they support social justice and economic equality, they may prefer incremental changes and collaborations across party lines. Moderates often emphasize fiscal responsibility while recognizing the need for public investment in healthcare, education, and infrastructure. They propose more gradual approaches to civil rights and environmental sustainability compared to their progressive counterparts.

The Speaker of the Ohio House is elected at the beginning of each General Assembly session, which occurs every two years, by a majority of House members. The role of Speaker involves guiding the House’s agenda, presiding over sessions, and determining which bills reach the floor for a vote.

The Speaker appoints members to various committees and designates committee chairs for the majority party. This appointment power allows the Speaker to influence the legislative process by deciding who serves any in each role. A legislative committee is a smaller group of legislators within the House or Senate, tasked with reviewing, analyzing, and making recommendations on proposed legislation. These committees focus on specific areas of policy, such as education, health, or finance, and shape and refine bills before they are considered by the full legislative body.

And don’t forget that the Speaker decides which bills receive floor votes, giving the position what is essentially veto power over all proposed legislation.

The current Speaker of the House is Matt Huffman (Republican), who serves as state representative for Ohio’s 78th District, which includes his hometown of Lima.

The President of the Ohio Senate is chosen at the beginning of each General Assembly session, similar to the Speaker of the House. Like the Speaker, the President of the Senate oversees legislative sessions and appoints committee chairs and members for the majority party. And like the speaker, they have de facto veto power over all potential legislation by deciding which bills get floor votes in which do not.

The current President of the Senate is Rob McColley (Republican), who is serving his second term in the Ohio Senate, representing Senate District 1. This district is situated in Northwest Ohio and includes the communities of Bryan, Defiance, Van Wert, and Findley.

President of the Senate Rob McColley

In both the House and the Senate, committees enable lawmakers to explore specific issues, gather information, and hear from experts and the public. This process ensures that legislation is vetted before it is brought to the floor for a vote. Understanding the committee system is vital for anyone interested in how laws are made and how they can participate in the legislative process.

We will revisit committees in the next chapter when we illustrate how a bill becomes law and how budgets are adopted.

In the Ohio General Assembly, a representative or senator becomes a member of a particular committee through appointments made by their chamber’s leadership.

While the House Speaker and President of the Senate appoint committee chairs and members for the majority party, in practice, minority leaders appoint membership for their party. By selecting who sits on which committees, leadership can shape their legislative agendas and prioritize bills that align with their party’s goals. This appointment power allows them to place loyal members in key positions, ensuring support for their leadership and policies. It also enables them to reward allies and manage dissent within their ranks, consolidating their control over the legislative process and the overall direction of state policy.

Legislative staffers are employees who support members of the Ohio General Assembly in carrying out their duties. They assist lawmakers by conducting research, drafting bills, managing communications, and handling constituent services. Their work ensures that legislators have the information and support they need to make informed decisions and effectively serve their constituents. Committee staffers also contribute significantly by providing specialized knowledge and organizational support, which helps committees function smoothly and efficiently.

Note the term constituent services refers to the assistance and support that elected officials and their staff provide to the residents of their district. This service includes helping constituents navigate government agencies, resolve issues with government programs, and access benefits and resources.

How to Become a Legislative Staffer 

If you are interested in becoming a legislative staffer, there are various pathways you can take. Internships and fellowships are excellent starting points that provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. Pursuing a degree in political science, public administration, or a related field will also make you a strong candidate. Additionally, getting involved in campus activities related to governance, volunteering in political campaigns, and seeking recommendations from professors can enhance your prospects.

Benefits of Being a Legislative Staffer 

Working as a legislative staffer offers numerous benefits. You will gain firsthand experience in the legislative process, develop a deep understanding of public policy, and build a network of professional contacts. This role also hones skills such as research, communication, and problem-solving, which are valuable in various careers. Moreover, the experience of contributing to the creation and implementation of laws can be incredibly rewarding and can open doors to future opportunities in public service, law, and other fields.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 3 – the Ohio Legislature in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press, p. 34-40.

Grace Flajnik (Republican), an alumna of the Levin College at Cleveland State University, has carved an early path in public service as a legislative aide at the Ohio House of Representatives. After earning her BA in Political Science from Youngstown State University, Grace furthered her education with a Master of Public Administration (MPA) from the Levin College. Her academic background provided her with a strong foundation in government and public policy. She also had volunteered on political campaigns in the Mahoning Valley.   

Following her graduation, Grace secured a sought-after fellowship with the Ohio Legislative Services Commission, which is a great starting point for aspiring legislative aides and other state government employees. Fellows typically develop strong skills in policy analysis and research.   

Grace then worked for State Representative Nick Santucci, a Republican from Howland Township in Trumbull County. Currently, Grace works for Rep. Justin Pizzulli, who represents Scioto, Adams, and parts of Brown County. In her role, she wears many hats, from helping constituents with their concerns to analyzing policies and drafting legislation. Grace’s daily tasks include responding to citizens’ questions, preparing reports on legislative issues, and assisting in the creation of new laws.

Here’s then-House Speaker Jason Stephens presenting Grace with the “Employee of the Quarter” award in 2024.

Grace’s journey shows that a combination of relevant education, practical experience through fellowships and political campaigns, and a passion for public service can lead to rewarding positions in the legislature.

Photos from Rep. Santucci’s Instagram account: https://www.instagram.com/p/CoNJhMBN8jI/ and Grace Flajnik’s LinkedIn account.

In addition to lawmaking, Ohio state legislators serve their constituents by overseeing executive branch agencies. For example, a state legislative committee could hold a hearing to review the performance and budget of a particular state agency to ensure the agency is effectively managing its programs and resources. This is an example of checks and balances. The Ohio General Assembly employs additional tools for oversight, including the establishment of permanent oversight committees to monitor the executive branch’s activities. One example is the Correctional Institution Inspection Committee, responsible for inspecting private and state-operated adult prisons and jails operated by the Department of Youth Services.

Legislators also review and have the power to invalidate administrative rules issued by state agencies through the influential Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR). Comprising five members each from the House and Senate, JCARR ensures balanced representation by limiting membership to three members from the same political party per body. Although JCARR cannot directly invalidate a rule, it can recommend such action to the General Assembly.

Additional oversight is provided by the Controlling Board and the Sunset Review Committee, which evaluates agencies on a set schedule, potentially terminating those that fail to justify their existence.

Legislative oversight is a critical check and balance against the executive and judicial branches. By monitoring and reviewing the actions of executive agencies, the legislature ensures that these agencies operate within the law and adhere to legislative intent. This oversight prevents the executive branch from overstepping its authority and ensures that public funds are used appropriately.

Additionally, by having the power to review and recommend changes to administrative rules, the legislature can ensure that the judicial branch does not interpret laws in ways that stray from legislative intent. This system of checks and balances helps maintain the separation of powers and ensures that no single branch of government becomes too powerful.

However, oversight generally diminishes when the same party controls each branch. When the legislative, executive, and judicial branches are controlled by the same party, there may be a tendency for legislators to align with their party’s agenda and priorities, leading to less rigorous scrutiny. This can result from a desire to maintain party unity, avoid intra-party conflict, and support the party’s overall goals. Consequently, the legislative branch may be less inclined to critically evaluate and challenge the actions of the other branches, potentially leading to an imbalance of power and reduced accountability.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus, OH.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 3 – the Ohio Legislature in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press, p. 32-34.

Under the Ohio Constitution, the seven-member Ohio Redistricting Commission is responsible for dividing Ohio into Senate and House districts every ten years. This coincides with the release of national census data, and the commission redraws district maps to reflect population changes. We call the redrawing process reapportionment. The Commission is composed of the Governor, the Auditor of State, the Secretary of State, a person chosen by the Speaker of the House, a person chosen by the Minority Leader of the House, a person chosen by the President of the Senate, and a person chosen by the Minority Leader of the Senate.

The Commission draws lines dividing the state into 33 Senate and 99 House districts. Given Ohio’s 2020 census population of 11,799,448 people, the ideal population of a state House district is 119,186, while the ideal population of a Senate district is 357,559. The ideal populations are known technically as ratios of representation.

In drawing districts, the Commission must follow procedures to keep counties, municipal corporations, and townships together. And the Commission must attempt to create a district plan that (1) is not drawn primarily to favor or disfavor a political party, (2) corresponds closely to the statewide partisan preferences of Ohio voters, and (3) includes compact districts. If a federal court or the Ohio Supreme Court invalidates the redistricting plan, the Commission is required to meet and prepare a new plan.

Reference

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 2 – The Legislative Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus, OH, pp. 19-20.

Gerrymandering is the practice of drawing the boundaries of electoral districts in a way that gives one political party or group an unfair advantage over its opponents. Gerrymandering can significantly impact election outcomes by shaping the political landscape to favor the party in control of the redistricting process, often leading to a lack of fair representation for certain groups​.

Gerrymandering, which is when districts are drawn to favor Republicans or Democrats, often leads to general elections where most races aren’t competitive. Paul Scracic, a professor at Youngstown State, points out “Because of gerrymandering there are usually only about two dozen competitive seats in the Ohio House and three to four in the Senate during elections.” (Scracic and Binning 2015, p. 29).

A related problem is that when one party controls most of the seats, politicians have less reason to work together across party lines, leading to increased political conflicts. This can lead to increased political polarization, which we will discuss in more detail later in the chapter.

State Senator Grace Drake (Republican) was a remarkable public servant, known for her commitment to mentoring young leaders. She represented Ohio’s 22nd District from 1984 to 2000, a district that always included her hometown Solon (Cuyahoga County). Drake’s legislative career was characterized by her ability to foster bipartisan cooperation and her focus on improving the lives of her constituents.

During her time in the Ohio Senate, Drake was instrumental in several key initiatives. She chaired the Ohio Women’s Policy and Research Commission, which played a significant role in addressing issues affecting women in the state. Additionally, she co-chaired the Certificate of Need Study Committee and was a member of the Certificate of Need Review Board, where she worked to ensure that healthcare resources were distributed effectively and efficiently across Ohio. Drake also served on the Joint Select Committee on Central Motor Vehicle Registration, helping to streamline and modernize the state’s vehicle registration processes.

Senator Drake chaired Ohio’s Task Force on Regional Competitiveness, where she led efforts to enhance the economic vitality of the state’s regions. Under her leadership, the task force focused on identifying barriers to economic growth and advocated for policies that promoted regional cooperation and innovation. These initiatives included promoting infrastructure improvements, supporting workforce development programs tailored to regional needs, and encouraging partnerships between local governments and businesses to attract new industries. By focusing on these areas, the task force helped make the state more attractive to investors and positioning it for long-term growth and competitiveness.

One of Senator Drake’s most enduring legacies is the creation of the Ohio Center for the Advancement of Women in Public Service at Cleveland State University (CSU). Understanding the importance of empowering women in politics, she established the Center to provide training, networking opportunities, and research on women’s political participation. Through her persistent efforts, she secured funding year after year, ensuring the Center’s continued operation and impact on future generations of women leaders.

Beyond her legislative achievements, Grace Drake was a mentor to countless young people, guiding and inspiring them to pursue careers in public service. The mentoring programs she initiated at CSU have helped many young leaders navigate the complexities of political life. Drake’s legacy lives on through the Center and the mentoring initiatives she championed, reflecting her lifelong dedication to public service and empowering others. Her contributions have left a lasting impact on Ohio and continue to inspire future leaders.

References

https://www.ohiostatehouse.org/museum/ladies-gallery/grace-l-drake

https://www.clevelandstatemagazine.com/drake/

Patrick Sweeney (Democrat), another prominent figure in Ohio politics, served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 1967 to 1996 and in the State Senate from 1997 to 1998. Known for his work in education and urban policy, Sweeney was a strong advocate for initiatives that supported urban development and revitalization. After his legislative career, he continued his public service as an administrator at CSU, where he played a significant role in supporting the Levin College of Urban Affairs. His efforts advanced the college’s mission to foster leadership and innovation in urban affairs. Representative Sweeney left a lasting impact on the state’s approach to urban policy and education.

Reference

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Patrick_Sweeney_(politician)

State Senator Nickie Antonio (Democrat) is a prominent figure in Ohio politics. She represents the 23rd District, which includes parts of Cuyahoga County. She also serves as the state senate’s minority leader, which means she is the highest-ranking member of the Democratic Party in the state senate. This makes her responsible for leading the Democrats’ legislative agenda, strategizing on policy priorities, and coordinating efforts to represent her party’s positions.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Cleveland State University and later a master’s degree in Public Administration from the Maxine Goodman Levin School of Urban Affairs at CSU, where she developed her passion for urban planning and community development. It was during the Columbus Seminar course for her MPA program at CSU that she first realized she could be a state senator.

Before her tenure in the Ohio Senate, Antonio served as a state representative and on the Lakewood City Council, where she worked tirelessly to improve the community and address local issues. Her leadership skills and dedication to her constituents earned her a reputation as a proactive and compassionate public servant. As a council member, she focused on economic development, public safety, and social services, making significant contributions to the city’s growth and welfare.

In the Ohio Senate, Antonio has continued to champion progressive causes, advocating for LGBTQ+ rights, healthcare reform, and public education. She has been a vocal supporter of legislation aimed at expanding Medicaid, protecting reproductive rights, and addressing the opioid crisis. Her efforts have been recognized statewide, making her a respected and influential voice in the Ohio General Assembly.

Senator Antonio’s work is driven by her belief in equality and justice for all Ohioans. She continues to advocate for policies that support marginalized communities and improve the quality of life for her constituents. Her background in urban affairs and public administration uniquely positions her to address the complex challenges facing Ohio’s urban areas.

Reference

https://ohiosenate.gov/members/nickie-j-antonio/biography

Darnell T. Brewer (Democrat), a Levin School graduate, serves as State Representative for Ohio’s 18th House District. He earned his BA in Urban Studies from the Levin School with a certificate in nonprofit management and then went on to earn a Master of Legal Studies from CSU’s School of Law.

Representative Brewer brings over 15 years of leadership experience in social services and public advocacy to his role in the Ohio House of Representatives.

In the legislature, Representative Brewer works to advance policies that promote affordable housing, quality education, economic development, and public safety reforms. A Cleveland native, he has been deeply involved in initiatives supporting families and youth.

Representative Brewer’s career trajectory highlights the power of public service to drive change.

Reference

https://ohiohouse.gov/members/darnell-t-brewer/biography

Tristan Rader (Democrat) is a state representative who earned his MPA from CSU. Before being elected to the state legislature in 2024, he served on Lakewood City Council, where he introduced initiatives to improve public transportation, support small businesses, and promote community sustainability.  

Rader also led a nonprofit dedicated to expanding access to solar energy across Ohio. Under his direction, the organization worked to make solar power more affordable and accessible. They implemented projects ranging from residential systems to large-scale installations.

Reference

Representative Rader’s LinkedIn profile

Dave Greenspan (Republican) is a former Ohio state representative who served from 2017 to 2020. Before his tenure in the state legislature, Greenspan was involved in local government, serving on the Cuyahoga County Council and the city council of Sandy Springs, Georgia. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business and accounting from Troy University and has a background in communications and broadcasting.   

During his time as a state representative, Greenspan focused on improving local infrastructure, enhancing public safety, and promoting fiscal responsibility. He successfully sponsored several pieces of legislation, including measures to increase transparency in government operations and initiatives aimed at reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Today, Dave Greenspan continues to serve as Westlake’s city council president and as an advisory committee member for the Levin School. In this role, he contributes his wealth of experience and insights, guiding the development of programs that aim to educate and empower future leaders in public service.

Reference

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Greenspan

The Columbus Seminar (UST 473/573) offers Cleveland State University students a unique opportunity to explore state government in action and gain insight into careers in public service. Over Spring Break, students travel to Columbus for a five-day, immersive experience that brings them face-to-face with key figures in Ohio’s government. This field study includes meetings with senior officials from all three branches of government, as well as leaders from independent agencies, the media, and advocacy organizations.  

During the Columbus Seminar, students connect with Ohio’s policymakers and gain firsthand knowledge of how state-level decisions impact communities across the state. Cleveland State alum and current State Senator Nickie Antonio credits this course with inspiring her to pursue a career in public office. Participants meet influential alumni like Senator Antonio and Senator Kent Smith (also a Levin alum), visit institutions like the Ohio Supreme Court, and engage with representatives from organizations such as the ACLU, the Buckeye Institute, and the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing.  

Photo: Dr. Meghan Rubado and CSU students with Ohio Supreme Court Justices.

Before the field study, students prepare by attending five Friday afternoon classes at the Levin School of Urban Affairs. These sessions cover topics like federalism, state politics, and the policy-making process. Enrolling in the Columbus Seminar provides a rare opportunity for juniors, seniors, and graduate students to earn credit hours while gaining real-world insights. Admission is competitive and requires an application, with a priority deadline of November 15. For students interested in a career in public service, the Columbus Seminar is a steppingstone toward understanding the work of government and the opportunities it holds.

For more information, check out https://levin.csuohio.edu/columbus-seminar/columbus-seminar.

Understanding the structure and functions of the Ohio General Assembly is useful for your future civic engagement. By learning about the roles and responsibilities of state senators and representatives, you gain insights into how laws are made and how legislative decisions impact your community. This knowledge empowers you to advocate for issues that matter to you, engage with lawmakers, and participate in public meetings. Whether you plan to vote, attend public events, or pursue a career in public service, understanding the legislative process will help you become an informed and active citizen.

This chapter provides a foundation for understanding the complexities of the legislative branch, highlighting the importance of committees, legislative staff, and oversight mechanisms. By recognizing how the General Assembly operates and the checks and balances in place, you can better appreciate the democratic process and your role in it. Engaging with your state legislature can lead to meaningful contributions to your community and state, ensuring that your voice is heard in the creation and implementation of laws.

In the next chapter, we will explore how elected officials make laws and set the budget for the state of Ohio. This process is essential for maintaining the state’s operations and services. It’s important for you to know how to make your voice heard to influence policy in a productive way. By understanding the legislative process, you can effectively participate in public hearings, contact your representatives, and engage in advocacy to shape policies that affect your life and community.

The Ohio General Assembly exercises its legislative power primarily through bills and resolutions.

Bills are documents proposed by a member of the General Assembly to create new laws or amend or repeal existing ones. The term “bill” is used from its drafting until it passes both houses and is presented to the Governor. Once approved by the Governor or if the Governor takes no action for ten days, the bill becomes a law.

“I’m Just a Bill” is a famous educational video from the “Schoolhouse Rock!” series. It explains the legislative process at the federal level.

Note that for most bills, the Ohio Constitution requires a 90-day wait period before the law can be implemented. During this time, citizens can initiate a referendum to overturn an unpopular law. A referendum is a process that allows citizens to vote directly on a specific issue or question placed on the ballot. However, initiating a referendum is difficult and requires considerable resources, including time, money, and organizational effort. We will learn more about this process in Chapter 21.

Role of Party Caucuses 

Party caucuses are influential throughout the legislative process. These are groups of legislators from the same political party who meet to discuss and plan legislative strategies. A closed-door party caucus meeting can influence the progress of a bill significantly. For example, if the caucus collectively decides to oppose a bill, they can effectively put a stop to it, preventing it from advancing.

The Challenges of Passing Legislation 

Passing legislation is not easy, as your bill can be waylaid at several steps in the process. When your bill is first assigned to a committee, the committee chair has the authority to deny it a committee vote, effectively killing it. Even if your bill receives a vote, other committee members might reject it, resulting in its demise.

If you’re lucky enough for the committee to approve it, they send it to the full chamber (House or Senate). However, both the Speaker of the House and the President of the Senate have the authority to deny your bill a floor vote. A floor vote is taken by the full membership of the House or Senate. Even if your bill receives a floor vote, it could still fail. If it passes, the other chamber must also pass your bill. If that happens, the final version is sent to the Governor, who could veto it. Finally, even if your bill makes it through that gauntlet, it theoretically could face voter opposition through a citizen-initiated referendum.

You now see how difficult it can be to pass legislation.

The Veto and Legislative Override as Checks and Balances 

The principles of checks and balances are fundamental to the Ohio system of governance. They ensure that no single branch of government becomes too powerful, maintaining a balance of power among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Checks and balances are used in the lawmaking process, particularly gubernatorial vetoes.

Veto Power 

The veto is a constitutional power granted to the executive branch, allowing the governor to reject a bill passed by the legislature. This power serves as a check on the legislative branch, ensuring that laws are carefully considered and preventing hasty or potentially harmful legislation from being enacted without executive review.

Legislative Override

While the governor can check the legislature’s power to some degree, Ohio allows for the legislature to either prevent or overturn a veto if the bill has received a super majority vote in the General Assembly. Let me tell you more.

A legislative override is a process by which the legislature can overturn a veto issued by the governor. In Ohio, this requires a three-fifths (60%) majority vote in both the House and the Senate. This power acts as a counterbalance to the executive veto, ensuring that the legislature can enact laws even if the executive disagrees, provided there is significant support for the legislation.

The Ohio Legislative Service Commission (LSC) is a nonpartisan agency that provides research, drafting, and analytical support to the Ohio General Assembly. The LSC plays a key role in the legislative process by assisting legislators and their aides at every step, from developing policy ideas to analyzing proposed laws. It acts as a trusted source of guidance and information while maintaining professionalism and neutrality. LSC key functions include:  

Bill Drafting and Amendment Support  

The LSC helps legislators turn their ideas into draft legislation, keeping proposals consistent with legal standards and existing statutes. Legislative aides work with the LSC to submit requests for bill drafting or amendments and handle technical adjustments.  

Policy and Legal Research  

Legislators use the LSC for in-depth research and analysis on policy issues. The agency provides nonpartisan reports, data, and background information to inform legislative decisions. Legislative aides often use these resources to create briefings or prepare talking points for their legislators.  

Fiscal Analysis  

The LSC prepares fiscal notes and impact statements that explain the financial effects of proposed legislation. Legislators use this information to assess the costs and benefits of policy decisions. Legislative aides review these notes to help their legislators understand budgetary impacts and explain them during debates or hearings.  

Procedural and Legal Guidance  

The LSC advises legislators on procedural rules and the legal aspects of proposals. Legislative aides request clarification on issues like committee referrals or amendment protocols, relying on the LSC to navigate the legislative process.  

Legislative Education and Training  

The LSC provides training for new legislators and their staff. These sessions cover the legislative process, tools, and resources to help both legislators and aides perform their roles effectively.  

Confidentiality  

The LSC treats all bill drafting, research, and other services as confidential. This allows legislators to explore ideas and proposals without outside influence or pressure.  

The LSC works closely with legislators and their aides to support every step of the legislative process. Its expertise and resources help shape effective policies and improve the quality of legislative work in Ohio.

This case study uses House Bill 68 to explain Ohio’s legislative process in detail. Known as the “Saving Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act,” the bill proposed banning gender-affirming care for minors and restricting transgender women and girls from participating on female sports teams in schools and colleges.

The bill was chosen for its complexity. It followed the typical steps of becoming law, including committee review and votes in both chambers, but it also included a rare gubernatorial veto and an even rarer veto override by the General Assembly.

In this case, the governor opposed the bill and vetoed it. However, the General Assembly held another vote and achieved the required three-fifths majority in both the House of Representatives and the Senate to override the veto. Subsequently, the bill became law.

Background

House Bill 68, also known as the “Saving Adolescents from Experimentation (SAFE) Act,” aimed to ban gender-affirming care for minors and restrict transgender women and girls from participating in female sports teams at both K-12 and collegiate levels in Ohio.

Legislative Process

This section demonstrates the legislative power dynamics and the procedural steps involved when the General Assembly overrides a gubernatorial veto, especially when the initial votes do not meet the veto-proof threshold in one chamber but do in the other.

Now that you’ve covered the legislative process in detail, take time to walk through the flow chart below. The goal is to recognize the intricacies of the process.

Figure: How a Bill Becomes a Law in Ohio

Source: Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 5 – Enacting Legislation in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus, OH p. 66. 

If you’re interested in identifying legislation and seeing where it stands in the decision-making process, the Ohio Legislature’s Legislation Search Tool is a valuable resource. Whether you’re tracking a specific policy issue, researching a topic for school, or simply staying informed about changes to Ohio’s laws, understanding how to find and follow legislation can be very useful.

The tool helps you identify both proposed and enacted legislation. Proposed legislation includes bills or resolutions currently under review by the legislature, while enacted legislation refers to those that have completed the process and are now law.

Key Features of the Tool  

• Search by General Assembly – You can filter results based on the General Assembly session. For example, the link defaults to the 135th General Assembly.

• Keyword Search – Enter specific terms related to a bill’s subject, such as “education funding” or “gun rights.”

• Bill Number Search – If you know the specific bill number, you can search for it directly to find detailed information.

• Sort and Filter Options – Customize the display by sorting results by bill number, status, or date and filtering based on criteria like bill type (e.g., House Bill or Senate Bill).

How to Use the Tool  

• Enter Keywords or Criteria – Start by typing a topic or phrase into the search bar.

• Review the Results – A list of matching bills will appear, showing the bill number, title, and a brief description.

• Click on a Bill – Select any bill to view its full text, sponsors, and current status.

• Track Legislation – Use the “Track This Bill” feature to monitor updates on specific bills, such as committee assignments or votes.

Why It’s Useful

• Stay Informed – The tool allows you to follow legislation affecting Ohioans and understand how the legislative process unfolds.

• Research Tool – It’s invaluable for analyzing current policy debates and identifying trends in Ohio lawmaking.

• Class Assignments – Use it to find legislation for case studies or policy analysis projects.

This tool is useful for anyone interested in Ohio’s legislative process – whether you’re a student, a researcher, or an engaged citizen.

In recent years, lawmaking in Ohio, like in many other states, has been heavily influenced by partisanship and polarization. Understanding these terms can help us grasp why it can sometimes be difficult for lawmakers to pass new laws and policies.

Partisanship refers to strong loyalty to a political party, often leading members of that party to strongly support their party’s policies and candidates while opposing those of the other party. In Ohio, as well as across the United States, partisanship has become more intense, meaning that Democrats and Republicans are more likely to disagree with each other on a wide range of issues. Moreover, with super majorities in the House and Senate and a Republican governor, Republicans do not need Democrat support to pass favored legislation.

Polarization is the growing gap between the political views of Republicans and Democrats. This means that the two parties are moving further apart in their beliefs and policy preferences. For example, Democrats might strongly support environmental regulations and social justice initiatives, while Republicans might emphasize free-market principles and traditional values. As polarization increases, it becomes harder for the two parties to find common ground.

The opposite of polarization is bipartisanship. Bipartisanship is when members of both parties work together to pass laws. This cooperation is essential for effective governance, especially in a divided government where one party controls the legislature, and the other holds the executive office. Bipartisanship requires compromise and a willingness to find solutions that satisfy both parties to some extent.

However, rising partisanship and polarization have made bipartisanship more challenging. This partisanship is partly explained by gerrymandering. When legislative districts are strongly skewed toward either Republicans or Democrats, incumbents are assured of winning the general election. The only real threat to their seat comes from challengers within their own party during the primary. Therefore, they lack a political incentive to work across the aisle in a bipartisan manner. Their incentive is to stay in the good graces of their partisan primary voters.

When lawmakers are unable to agree on policies, it leads to gridlock. Gridlock occurs when there is so much disagreement between the parties that little to no legislation can be passed. This often results in important issues being left unresolved because lawmakers cannot reach a consensus.

Interest groups are organized groups of people who work together to influence government decisions and policies. They represent a wide range of interests such as business, labor, education, the environment, or public safety. Some interest groups focus on advancing the goals of their members such as teachers, farmers, or small businesses, while others advocate for broader causes that affect the public, such as clean air or voting rights.

In Ohio, interest groups help to shape public policy. They provide lawmakers with information, testify at committee hearings, and encourage citizens to contact their elected officials. For example, the Ohio Education Association represents teachers and works to influence education policy and funding, while the Ohio Environmental Council advocates for stronger environmental protections.

Interest groups differ from political parties because they do not nominate candidates for office. Instead, they focus on persuading those already in office or those seeking election to support their issues.

Lobbying refers to the act of influencing government officials, particularly legislators, to enact or modify laws and policies in favor of a particular interest or cause. It often involves direct communication with lawmakers, advocacy efforts, and sometimes organizing grassroots campaigns to support a specific policy position.

Government relations is a broader term that encompasses lobbying but also includes other activities aimed at managing an organization’s relationship with government entities. This can involve monitoring legislative developments, building and maintaining relationships with government officials, providing strategic advice on public policy, and ensuring compliance with government regulations. While lobbying is a key component of government relations, the latter involves a more comprehensive approach to interacting with and influencing government at all levels.

Government relations provides significant value to companies and communities by actively shaping the policies that impact them. For companies, effective government relations can lead to favorable policies, access to government contracts, and a better understanding of regulatory requirements, which can enhance business operations and growth. For local governments, government relations can help secure funding, influence policy decisions that improve local services, and ensure that the voices of residents are heard in governmental decisions, leading to stronger, more resilient communities.

The Advance Higher Education Act was signed into law in 2025. By then, it had became one of the most widely discussed issues in state politics. Because it made headlines, sparked protests, and went through two different General Assemblies, it provides a good case study for understanding how public policy is made. This case gives students a chance to examine how competing interests, lawmakers and different advocacy groups, can shape the legislative process and influence what becomes law.

As you recall, a proposed law is called a bill. If it passes both the House and the Senate and is signed by the governor, it becomes a law, often referred to as an act. In this case, you will read about two bills: Senate Bill 83 (SB 83) and Senate Bill 1 (SB 1), which were debated in different legislative sessions. These bills were early versions of what eventually became the Advance Higher Education Act, the law that was officially passed in 2025. Understanding these two bills will help you see how a policy idea can change over time and what it takes to move from a proposal to an actual law.

Senate Bill 83 & the 135 Ohio General Assembly (2023-24)

Senate Bill 83, also known as the “Ohio Higher Education Enhancement Act,” was a hotly debated in the 135th Ohio General Assembly (2023-24). This bill proposed reforms to higher education, including restricting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at state colleges and universities. The bill aimed to prohibit mandatory diversity training, the use of diversity statements in hiring, and would have required universities to demonstrate intellectual diversity for course approval.

The bill also mandated annual performance evaluations for faculty members and would eliminate their right to engage in labor strikes.

Support and Opposition 

Supporters of SB 83, including its sponsor Senator Jerry Cirino and several conservative lawmakers, argued that the bill is necessary to ensure free speech and intellectual diversity on state-owned college campuses. They believed that current DEI programs can stifle diverse viewpoints and create an environment of ideological conformity. Proponents also asserted that the bill would have prevented public funds from being used for what they consider to be biased training and policies.

Opponents, including university faculty, certain student organizations, and civil rights advocates, argued that the bill undermined efforts to create inclusive and equitable educational environments. They contend that DEI programs are essential for addressing historical and systemic inequalities in education. Critics also expressed concerns that the bill’s restrictions could lead to a chilling effect on academic freedom and discourage honest discussions about important social issues.

Legislative Process 

SB 83 passed the Ohio Senate in May 2023 and was subsequently revised and passed by a House committee in December 2023. However, the bill faced opposition in the Ohio House, where numerous lawmakers from both parties expressed concerns about its potential impact on education and labor rights. Then House Speaker Jason Stephens refused to give the bill a floor vote and it died in committee.

Remember, the Speaker of the House has the authority to decide which bills reach the House floor for a vote (and which don’t). This means that he can choose to hold up or advance bills based on various factors, including political strategy and legislative priorities. This demonstrates the Speaker’s power and pivotal role in shaping the legislative process.​

This case highlights the intense debates and competing interests that can arise in the legislative process, particularly around issues of education, free speech, and equity. It demonstrates how legislative proposals can galvanize various constituency groups, each advocating for their vision of what policies best serve the public interest​.

Senate Bill 1 & the 136 Ohio General Assembly (2024-25)

When Ohio’s General Assembly ends its two-year session, any bills that haven’t passed both chambers expire. Because SB 83 (2023) stalled in the House and wasn’t enacted before the session ended in December 2024, it couldn’t carry over as SB 83 into 2025. That’s why the bill’s sponsor, Senator Cirino, had to refile the proposal as a new bill (Senate Bill 1) when the 136th General Assembly convened in early 2025.

The bill was built on the ideas from SB 83 but adds many new mandates. It bans all DEI programs, offices, job titles, trainings, and scholarships; prohibits faculty strikes; requires public posting of course syllabi with instructor credentials; mandates a civic literacy course; demands institutions declare neutrality on controversial topics; and restricts acceptance of donations from China.

The Senate quickly advanced the bill. It was first approved by the Senate’s Higher Education Committee, then passed by the full Senate in a floor vote.

In the House, Representative Tom Young of the Miami Valley in Southwest Ohio introduced identical legislation as House Bill 6. Representative Young, who chairs the Workforce and Higher Education Committee, oversaw the bill’s review and approval by committee.

As you recall when a bill is approved by a committee in the House, the Speaker of the House determines whether it will come to the floor for a vote. In the previous session, the Speaker Jason Stephens blocked a floor vote. The new Speaker of House Matt Huffman supported the bill and advanced it to the floor where it received party-line support.

Governor Mike DeWine also supported the bill and signed it into law on March 28, 2025.

Following its enactment, opponents launched a grassroots veto referendum campaign to try to overturn the new law. A veto referendum is a process in Ohio that allows citizens to collect signatures and place a recently passed law on the statewide ballot for voters to decide whether it should take effect or be repealed.

Their goal was to put the issue on the statewide ballot so Ohio voters could decide whether to keep or reject Senate Bill 1. They collected nearly 195,000 petition signatures but fell short of the required 248,100 valid signatures and did not meet the rule that requires signatures from at least 44 of Ohio’s 88 counties.

Under Ohio law, citizens have 90 days after a law is signed to gather enough signatures to pause its implementation and place it on the ballot for a vote. Because the organizers did not meet the required number of signatures by the June 26, 2025 deadline, Senate Bill 1 went into effect without a public vote.

References

https://apnews.com/article/higher-education-ohio-dei-restrictions-faculty-strikes-8b0ab7db08eb712e3350bb241b610f70

https://apnews.com/article/ohio-higher-education-dei-bill-ban-378ca9b2389e182562296872edb5d68e

The press plays a significant role in influencing the lawmaking process in states like Ohio through several mechanisms:

Agenda Setting – The press has the power to shape public discourse by choosing which issues to highlight. When the media focuses on particular topics, it can elevate these issues on the legislative agenda, prompting lawmakers to address them. For example, extensive coverage of the opioid crisis in Ohio has pressured state legislators to prioritize opioid-related policies and funding.

Public Opinion – Media coverage can influence public opinion by framing issues in specific ways. Positive or negative portrayals of policies or legislators can sway public sentiment, which lawmakers often consider when making decisions to align with their constituents’ preferences and ensure reelection.

Watchdog Function – The press serves as a watchdog, holding government officials accountable by investigating and exposing misconduct, corruption, or inefficiency. This scrutiny can lead to public outcry and demand for legislative action or reforms, as seen in instances of corruption uncovered in Ohio’s state government.

Information Dissemination – The media provides vital information to both the public and lawmakers. Detailed reporting on complex issues, legislative proposals, and the potential impact of policies helps inform and educate stakeholders, facilitating more informed decision-making within the legislative process.

Advocacy and Editorials – Newspapers, TV stations, and online media outlets often publish editorials and opinion pieces that advocate for or against specific policies. These can influence lawmakers by presenting arguments, data, and perspectives that may sway their stance on legislative matters.

Campaign Coverage – During election cycles, the press’s coverage of candidates and their platforms can shape the electoral landscape. Lawmakers are likely to respond to issues that receive significant media attention during campaigns to align themselves with voter concerns and secure electoral support.

Overall, the press’s ability to shape public discourse, inform and influence public opinion, and hold government accountable makes it a powerful force in the lawmaking process in Ohio.

The decline of newspapers in both small towns and larger cities has significant implications for the lawmaking process. With fewer reporters monitoring legislators, there is reduced accountability, leading to less scrutiny of their actions. This lack of oversight can result in increased opportunities for corruption and inefficiency, as legislators may feel less pressure to act transparently and responsibly.

Additionally, the decline in newspapers means the public is less informed about their representatives’ activities and decisions. Newspapers play a critical role in keeping communities updated on legislative actions that directly impact their lives. Without this information, public engagement and participation in the democratic process diminish, leading to decreased public pressure on legislators to address specific issues or respond to constituents’ needs. This shift can result in a legislative agenda more influenced by special interest groups or partisan considerations.

Moreover, the reduction in local newspapers affects the coverage of local issues that larger media outlets might overlook. This can lead to policies that do not adequately address the unique needs of smaller communities. The decline also weakens investigative journalism, which relies on dedicated reporters and resources typically found in local newspapers. Fewer in-depth investigations into legislative actions and potential misconduct reduce the overall quality of journalism and public knowledge, eroding civic engagement and weakening democratic institutions.

An illustrative example of this trend is the closure of the Youngstown Vindicator in 2019, which left the city without a major daily newspaper. The loss of the Vindicator had several potential implications:

Information Void – The absence of the Vindicator created an information void in Youngstown, reducing the availability of local news and investigative reporting. Residents lost a crucial source of information about local government, politics, and community issues.

Reduced Accountability for Local Officials – With the closure of the Vindicator, local officials in Youngstown faced less scrutiny from the press, potentially leading to less transparency and accountability in government operations.

Impact on Civic Engagement – The Vindicator’s closure likely contributed to a decline in civic engagement, as residents had fewer resources to stay informed about local issues and participate in the democratic process.

Overall, the decline in newspapers, including those in larger cities like Youngstown, can undermine the lawmaking process by diminishing accountability, reducing public awareness and engagement, and weakening the representation of local issues and diverse perspectives. This can lead to less effective and less democratic governance.

State Senator Kent Smith (Democrat), a Levin School alum, represents Ohio’s 21st Senate District.  

Smith graduated from Miami University in 1988 and earned a Master of Science in Urban Studies from CSU in 2001. His master’s thesis focused on the emerging threat of predatory lending and the subprime market. In 2002, he co-authored the first Predatory Lending Report for Policy Matters Ohio.  

Before serving in the Ohio Senate, Senator Kent Smith served in the state house and on the Euclid school board. He served four terms in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2015 to 2022, representing the 8th District. Prior to his tenure in the House, Smith was a dedicated member of the Euclid Board of Education from 2002 to 2013, during which he never missed a meeting.  

Senator Smith has a strong record of legislative accomplishments. In 2023, he introduced Senate Bill 50 to enhance 9-1-1 laws and strengthen emergency telecommunicator training, ensuring more effective responses during emergencies.

Senator Smith visiting with Levin School students on April 15, 2024.  

An advocate for fairness in utility services, Smith has worked to protect Ohioans from unfair practices by utility companies. He introduced laws to prevent utilities from passing the cost of their political activities onto customers, ensuring bills reflect actual service costs. Additionally, he pushed for laws requiring utility companies to refund customers if they were overcharged and sponsored the Consumer Utility Billing Transparency Act to make bills clearer and easier for customers to understand. These efforts aim to hold utility companies accountable and give Ohio residents more control over their bills.  

In addition to these efforts, Senator Smith has supported raising the state minimum wage and expanding protections for utility workers against harassment or threats.

Reference  

https://www.ohiosenate.gov/members/kent-smith/biography

This chapter explores the legislative process in Ohio, focusing on the journey of a bill from its inception to becoming a law. It explains that bills are proposed by members of the Ohio General Assembly and must pass through several stages, including drafting, committee review, debate, and voting in both legislative chambers. If a bill is approved by both the House and the Senate, it is sent to the Governor, who can either sign it into law or veto it. Additionally, the chapter discusses the use of resolutions, which express the opinions and wishes of the General Assembly but do not require the Governor’s approval.

Readers will learn how this knowledge can inform their civic engagement activities. By understanding the legislative process, individuals can better advocate for issues they care about, engage with their representatives, and participate in public hearings. Knowing how laws are made and the roles of different actors in the process empowers citizens to influence policy decisions and hold their government accountable. This chapter equips readers with the tools to actively participate in democracy and drive meaningful change in their communities.

Again, a budget is a detailed plan that the government creates each year to manage its money. It shows how much money the government expects to receive and how it plans to spend it. The budget includes:

• Revenue Projections – These are estimates of the money the government expects to collect from taxes, fees, and other sources.

• Expenditure Proposals – These are the plans for spending money on different programs and services, like education, healthcare, and defense.

The budget acts as a guide for how the government will handle its finances over a specific period, usually one year.   

An appropriations bill is a type of law that allows the government to spend money. Each appropriations bill sets aside a certain amount of money for specific government activities and programs. These bills are necessary to:

• Allocate Funds – Appropriations bills specify exactly how much money each government agency or program will receive.

• Authorize Spending – These bills give legal permission for the government to spend the money as planned.

Appropriations bills must be passed by both houses of the legislature and signed by the governor to become law.

In short, while the budget provides the plan, the appropriations bills provide the legal means to make that plan a reality. Multiple appropriations bills are needed to cover all the spending areas outlined in the budget, ensuring that every part of the government gets the money it needs to operate.

The state government creates several distinct budgets every two years to manage its finances effectively. These include the operating budget, capital budget, transportation budget, Bureau of Workers’ Compensation budget, and Industrial Commission budget, each serving different purposes and addressing various aspects of the state’s needs.   

Operating Budget 

The operating budget covers the day-to-day expenses of running the state government. This includes salaries for state employees, funding for public services like education and healthcare, and maintenance costs for state facilities. Essentially, it deals with recurring expenditures necessary for the state’s regular operations and services provided to the public.

Capital Budget 

The capital budget, on the other hand, is used for long-term investments and infrastructure projects. This includes spending on construction, major repairs, and improvements to state buildings, roads, bridges, and other public infrastructure. Capital budget items are typically large, one-time expenses that provide benefits over many years, such as building a new school or upgrading the state’s transportation system.

Transportation Budget 

The transportation budget specifically allocates funds for the construction, maintenance, and operation of Ohio’s transportation system, including highways, bridges, and public transit. This budget ensures dedicated funding for critical transportation projects, distinguishing it from the broader capital budget that covers a wider range of infrastructure projects.

By creating separate budgets for operating, capital, and transportation needs, the state can more effectively plan and manage its resources, ensuring that each area receives appropriate funding and attention.

Bureau of Workers’ Compensation Budget 

The Bureau of Workers’ Compensation budget is a separate budget that provides for the compensation and medical benefits to workers injured on the job. This budget is distinct because it is funded primarily through administrative assessments charged to employers, rather than the General Revenue Fund, to address the specific financial management needs of workers’ compensation programs.

Industrial Commission Budget 

The Industrial Commission budget supports the Industrial Commission of Ohio, which handles appeals for workers’ compensation claims. Like the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation budget, it is typically passed every two years and is funded through assessments on employers. This separation ensures focused financial management for the adjudication and appeals process in the workers’ compensation system.

References

https://www.lsc.ohio.gov/budget/

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 8 – The Ohio Budget Process.

The state budget process in Ohio is a systematic procedure that determines how the state allocates its financial resources over a two-year period. This process involves various actors, including state agencies, the Governor, and the General Assembly.

Here are the steps used to create the operating budget:

Preparation by State Agencies 

Agencies receive instructions from the Office of Budget and Management (OBM) on how to prepare their budget requests and submit them to OBM for review.

Formulation by the Governor 

OBM collaborates with the Governor to develop budget recommendations, which are compiled into the executive budget document (“blue book”).

The blue book contains the governor’s detailed budget proposal, including projected revenues, recommended expenditures, and policy priorities for the upcoming biennium. It also provides background information on the state’s financial condition and explanatory notes that outline why certain programs or services are being emphasized. This document serves as the starting point for legislative debate and amendment.

Submission to the General Assembly 

The Governor submits the executive budget to the General Assembly for review and approval.

Legislative Process 

The Legislative Service Commission drafts the Governor’s proposed budget into bill form, which is reviewed, amended, and approved by both the House and Senate. 

The legislative process involves several key steps. First, the proposed budget is introduced in the House of Representatives, where the House Finance Committee and its subcommittees conduct hearings. They review the budget, propose amendments, and draft a substitute bill incorporating their changes. This bill is then considered and amended by the full committee before being sent to the House floor for a vote.

Once the House passes the budget, it moves to the Senate, where the Senate Finance Committee and its subcommittees conduct a similar review. They may draft their own substitute bills to include desired changes. After thorough review and amendments, the Senate passes its version of the budget bills. Often, the Senate Finance Committee starts its review process while the bill is still under consideration in the House committee to manage the limited time available effectively.

Given that the House and Senate versions of the budget bills typically differ, a conference committee is convened to reconcile these differences. This committee, comprising members from both chambers, works to create a final version of the budget that is acceptable to both the House and the Senate. The committee’s report is then submitted to both chambers for approval.

Governor’s Approval 

The approved budget bills are sent to the Governor for signature or veto. The General Assembly can override vetoes with a three-fifths majority vote. The Constitution empowers the Governor to veto any item in an act making an appropriation, but the General Assembly has the power to override a line-item veto by a three-fifths majority vote in each house.

A line-item vetois the power of an executive authority, such as the Governor, to reject specific provisions a budget, without vetoing the entire appropriations bill. The General Assembly has the power to override a line-item veto by a three-fifths majority vote in each house. 

Reference

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 8 – The Ohio Budget Process.

The process for the capital budget begins in late summer of odd-numbered years, focusing on long-term infrastructure projects.

1. Initial Proposal – State agencies and institutions submit their project proposals and funding requests.
2. Review and Recommendations – The Office of Budget and Management (OBM) reviews these proposals and makes recommendations.
3. Governor’s Budget Proposal – The governor incorporates these recommendations into a proposed capital budget.
4. Legislative Review – The legislature reviews the governor’s proposal, with various committees scrutinizing the details and making adjustments.
5. Approval and Enactment – Both the House and Senate must approve the capital budget, which is then signed into law by the governor.

Throughout this process, various actors try to influence how state funds are allocated and who benefits from them. Different interest groups, such as local governments, nonprofits, businesses, and policy think tanks, lobby to ensure that their priorities are included. These actors provide data, advocate for specific projects, and sometimes collaborate to strengthen their influence. The final budget reflects a compromise between these competing interests, determining how resources are distributed across the state.

Some of this lobbying has the public interest at heart. For example, the Greater Cleveland Funders Collaborative is a coalition of local foundations and philanthropic organizations dedicated to enhancing the health and human services sector in the Greater Cleveland area. This group works together to influence Ohio’s state capital budget process by identifying and endorsing specific projects that address critical community needs. By combining their resources and expertise, the collaborative amplifies the impact of their advocacy efforts, ensuring that these projects receive the attention and consideration of state legislators. Their endorsements, grounded in thorough research and a deep understanding of regional needs, increase the chances of these projects securing state funding, thereby addressing vital local priorities in the state capital budget.

Federal Funds 

Federal funds are a significant part of Ohio’s budget. These funds come from the federal government and are used for specific programs like Medicaid, education, and transportation. Federal contributions are crucial because they help supplement the state’s own revenues and support essential public services​​.

Check out this graphic showing revenue sources for the state’s transportation budget. The federal government provided the largest source, followed by the state’s motor vehicle fuel tax. Without this funding source, the state wouldn’t be able to maintain our highways at the same level.

Figure 2: Revenue Sources for Ohio’s Transportation Budget (Fiscal Year 2023)

Citizens have several opportunities to influence the Ohio state operating and capital budgets:

Public Hearings

Committees hold public hearings where citizens can testify about specific budget items. For example, during the debate over the Ohio state budget in 2025, numerous public hearings were held where citizens could express their opinions on proposed cuts to public health funding. These hearings provide a platform for direct citizen input, allowing legislators to hear firsthand how budget decisions impact their constituents.

Contacting Legislators 

Writing letters, making phone calls, or scheduling meetings with legislators is a common way for citizens to advocate for or against budget items. For example, during the 2025 budget process, many Ohioans contacted their representatives to voice their concerns about proposed reductions in education funding. Personal stories and data shared through these contacts can significantly influence legislators’ perspectives and decisions. Engaging directly with legislators ensures that citizens’ voices are heard in the budgetary decision-making process.

Participating in Public Forums 

Public forums hosted by community organizations or local governments offer another venue for discussing the state budget and gathering citizen input. In 2025, several public forums were organized across Ohio to discuss the impact of potential budget cuts on education. These events allowed citizens to voice their concerns, ask questions, and provide suggestions directly to policymakers and other stakeholders.

Engaging with Interest Groups 

Joining or supporting advocacy groups that focus on specific budgetary changes can amplify an individual’s voice. For example, environmental advocacy groups in Ohio mobilized members to oppose budget cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency in the 2025 state budget. These groups often have the resources and expertise to mount effective campaigns and lobby on behalf of their members.

Using Social Media 

Social media platforms are powerful tools for raising awareness and contacting legislators directly. During the 2025 budget process, Ohioans used X and Facebook to organize virtual town halls and tweet at their legislators using hashtags like #SaveOurSchools to advocate for increased education funding. Social media campaigns can quickly mobilize large numbers of people and bring significant attention to specific budget issues.

Participating in the Electoral Process 

Voting for candidates who align with their budget priorities is a fundamental way for citizens to influence the budget process. For example, the 2022 gubernatorial election in Ohio saw debates on budget priorities, with candidates outlining their plans for health care, education, and infrastructure spending. Citizens can impact budget decisions by electing officials who share their views on fiscal policies and priorities.

These various forms of public participation ensure that citizens have multiple avenues to influence the budget process and hold their elected officials accountable for their fiscal decisions.

The state budget process in Ohio involves multiple steps and key players, including state agencies, the governor, and the General Assembly. Initially, state agencies prepare budget requests based on guidelines from the Office of Budget and Management (OBM). These requests are reviewed and formulated into the executive budget by the OBM and the governor. The executive budget is then submitted to the General Assembly, where it undergoes a thorough review process by the House and Senate Finance Committees. Both chambers may propose amendments and pass their versions of the budget, which are reconciled by a conference committee if necessary.

The final budget is then sent to the Governor for approval, who can sign it into law or veto specific items, with the General Assembly holding the power to override such vetoes.

This chapter equips readers with the knowledge needed to engage effectively in the budgeting process. By understanding how the budget is developed and approved, citizens can participate in public hearings, contact their legislators, and use social media to advocate for fiscal policies that reflect their priorities.

The Governor of Ohio is the head of the state’s executive branch, with extensive responsibilities and powers. The Governor oversees the execution of state laws, appoints heads of state agencies and departments, prepares the state budget, and grants pardons and reprieves. The Governor can call special legislative sessions and has the authority to veto legislative bills. The Governor’s office is central to Ohio government and politics, making the Governor the chief policy promoter and advocate in Ohio​​. The role also includes serving as the head of state, attending official ceremonies, and representing Ohio in various capacities​​.

The Governor’s formal powers include appointment authority, which allows the Governor to appoint officials to key positions within the state government. This power extends to members of various boards and commissions, often with the advice and consent of the Senate. The Governor also plays a major role in budget-making by presenting a biennial budget to the General Assembly. This becomes the basis for legislative deliberations. Additionally, the Governor has strong veto power, including a line-item veto over budgets, which can be used to strike specific provisions in appropriation bills​​​​.

Another critical aspect of the Governor’s role is the power to call out the Ohio National Guard during emergencies, such as natural disasters or civil disturbances. This authority highlights the Governor’s role as the chief of security and safety for the state. Furthermore, the Governor has the power of clemency, which includes granting pardons and commuting sentences. This power is significant in cases where the Governor believes justice necessitates such actions​​​​.

Overall, the Governor’s position is multifaceted and encompasses a wide range of responsibilities that impact various aspects of state governance. The Governor is limited by Ohio law to serving only two terms in office.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 10 – The Executive Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH.

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

Mike DeWine (Republican), born January 5, 1947, is the 70th Governor of Ohio, serving since 2019. A Republican, he was Ohio’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2019 and served in Congress, both in the U.S. House (1983-1991) and Senate (1995-2007). DeWine, from Yellow Springs, Ohio, graduated from Miami University and earned his law degree from Ohio Northern University. He began his career as an assistant prosecutor and then county prosecutor for Greene County. DeWine also served as Ohio’s lieutenant governor under George Voinovich. Elected to the U.S. Senate in 1994, he served until 2006.

Governor Mike DeWine has achieved several significant accomplishments during his tenure. One of his major achievements is securing the $20 billion Intel Semiconductor Factory project, which is expected to bring over 20,000 jobs to Ohio, marking the largest single private sector investment in the state’s history.

Governor DeWine has also made substantial investments in law enforcement and mental health services. He allocated over $274 million to support law enforcement resources and crime prevention efforts. His administration has invested $1.2 billion in student wellness and mental health programs, aiming to address these issues early and comprehensively​

He was reelected in 2022, defeating former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley by a large margin.

Much of the text in the above bio is quoted directly from the following source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_DeWine

Let’s revisit the concept of checks and balances because to get things done the governor must navigate both the legislative and judicial branches.

As you recall, the Ohio Constitution divides the state government into three branches: legislative, executive, and judicial. This division of power is crucial as it grants specific powers to each branch and establishes a system of checks and balances.

Getting elected as the governor of Ohio involves several steps, including meeting eligibility requirements, running a campaign, winning a primary election, and then winning the general election.

First, to be eligible to run for governor in Ohio, a person must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Ohio. They must also be a U.S. citizen. That’s it. Those are the only legal requirements. Once they meet these basic requirements, they need to declare their candidacy, which involves filing the necessary paperwork with the Ohio Secretary of State and paying any required fees. This makes their intention to run for governor official.

Running a campaign is a significant part of getting elected. The candidate needs to gain support from voters, which often involves creating a campaign team, raising funds, and developing a campaign strategy. This includes making public appearances, participating in debates, and advertising their policies and plans for the state. For example, Mike DeWine, who is the current governor of Ohio, campaigned on issues like improving education, increasing job opportunities, and enhancing public safety.

The election process begins with the primary election, where candidates from the same political party compete against each other to become the party’s nominee. The winners of the primary elections from each party then face off in the general election. In Ohio, the general election is held in November during even-numbered years. To win, a candidate must receive the most votes from the citizens of Ohio. Once elected, the new governor takes an oath of office and begins serving a four-year term, during which they will work on implementing their policies and managing the state’s executive branch.

Over the last few decades, Ohio governors have commonly shared several characteristics, notably a strong background in law and politics, with many having previously served in roles such as state attorney general or U.S. congressman. These governors have predominantly been white males, reflecting a lack of gender and racial diversity in the state’s highest executive office. This trend underscores broader patterns of political representation where minority groups and women have historically been underrepresented in high-ranking political positions.

George Voinovich (Republican) was Governor from 1991 to 1998.

First as mayor of Cleveland, he was credited with restoring financial health to Cleveland after the city went into default under his mayoral predecessor. A plainspoken man with a disarming grin and support from the city’s business establishment, he helped ignite the downtown building boom of the 1980s that would give Cleveland the moniker “Comeback City.”

He was an overwhelmingly popular governor, with job approval ratings between 60 percent and 70 percent. He managed to maintain an aura of control during a deadly prison riot at Lucasville in 1993 by not grandstanding for the cameras, and won reelection in 1994 with a stunning 72 percent of the vote.

When he moved into the governor’s mansion, the state was facing massive debt; by the time he left, it had nearly $1 billion in its “rainy day” fund and the Ohio Turnpike was undergoing a major expansion. His mantra was “Work harder and smarter and do more with less,” and he held budget growth to its lowest in three decades.

Following his two terms in Columbus, he was elected to the U.S. Senate where he served from 1999 to 2011.

Voinovich was born to parents of Serbian and Slovenian heritage in Cleveland’s Collinwood neighborhood, a working-class enclave with deep ethnic roots. A devout Catholic who attended Mass several times a week, Voinovich said he used prayer to help guide him in difficult or painful decisions. His goal, he had said, was “to witness and to make people feel good.”

After retiring from the U.S. Senate, George Voinovich joined CSU as a senior fellow in the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs. In this role, he served as a key advisor for CSU’s efforts to engage and support the broader Cleveland community, and he played an active part in developing major new community service initiatives at the university.

While at CSU, he authored the book Empowering the Public-Private Partnership: The Future of America’s Local Government, which draws on his success in revitalizing parts of Cleveland in the 1980s.

Much of the text in the above bio is quoted directly from Senator Voinovich’s obituary. See below for more details:

Cleveland Plain Dealer. 2016. “George Voinovich, Former Cleveland Mayor, Ohio Governor and U.S. Senator, Dies.” Jun. 16. https://www.cleveland.com/metro/2016/06/george_voinovich.html.

Additional Reference 

Cleveland State University. 2016. CSU Mourns the Passing of George Voinovich. https://www.csuohio.edu/news/csu-mourns-passing-george-voinovich

The lieutenant governor of Ohio supports the governor and assumes the role if the governor is unable to serve. Often overseeing specific policy areas or initiatives, the lieutenant governor’s responsibilities are shaped by the governor’s directives. This role involves significant administrative duties and coordination with state agencies to implement the governor’s agenda​​.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press

In January 2025, Governor Mike DeWine nominated then-Lieutenant Governor Jon Husted to fill the U.S. Senate seat vacated by J.D. Vance. Husted, who had been elected twice as Lieutenant Governor as DeWine’s running mate, assumed his new role in Washington, D.C.

To fill the vacancy, Governor DeWine appointed Jim Tressel as Lieutenant Governor. Tressel has had a distinguished career spanning athletics and higher education. Best known for his tenure as head coach of the Ohio State Buckeyes football team from 2001 to 2011, he led the program to a national championship in 2002 and multiple Big Ten titles. After his coaching career, he transitioned into academic leadership, serving as an administrator at the University of Akron before becoming president of Youngstown State University from 2014 to 2023.

While the United States federal government allows the president to appoint the attorney general and other high-profile positions, the framers of the Ohio state constitution opted for a different approach by making these key executive positions elected rather than appointed. This decision ensures greater accountability and representation of the public’s interests, as Ohioans have direct control over who holds significant offices such as attorney general, secretary of state, auditor, and treasurer.

By electing these officials, the power is distributed more evenly, preventing the governor from consolidating too much authority. This system provides a built-in check and balance within the executive branch, fostering a more balanced and democratic governance structure. The history of Ohio’s executive branch demonstrates that independently elected officials can serve as effective checks on the Governor’s power, promoting transparency and accountability in state government​.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 10 – The Executive Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH.

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

The attorney general is the chief legal officer of Ohio and represents the state in legal matters. The office provides legal advice to state agencies and officials, defends the state in court, and enforces both civil and criminal laws. This means the attorney general can take action in cases involving financial or consumer disputes (civil law) as well as cases that involve breaking the law and possible punishment (criminal law).

While the attorney general does not usually prosecute routine criminal cases, the office may step in when asked by a county prosecutor, when there is a conflict of interest, or in specialized cases such as organized crime, public corruption, or environmental violations.

The attorney general also oversees law enforcement initiatives and consumer protection programs, including investigating fraud and protecting Ohioans from unfair business practices. In addition, the office supervises the Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), which supports local law enforcement with forensic science, criminal investigations, and specialized

Reference

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

The current attorney general is Dave Yost (Republican). He graduated from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism. He earned a Juris Doctor from the Capital University Law School. After earning his bachelor’s degree, Yost became a journalist with the Columbus Citizen-Journal.

Yost later served in senior positions within the administration of Columbus Mayor Buck Rinehart and Governor George Voinovich.

Dave Yost was appointed Delaware County Auditor in 1999 and became the Delaware County Prosecutor in 2003. He was elected Ohio’s 32nd state auditor in 2010 after an earlier bid for the Republican nomination for Ohio attorney general. In January 2017, Yost announced his candidacy for Ohio Attorney General, a position he won in 2018 by defeating Democrat Steve Dettelbach. Yost was re-elected in 2022, defeating Democratic candidate Jeffrey Crossman.

The text in the above bio is quoted directly from the following source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dave_Yost

The auditor of state ensures the financial accountability of Ohio’s state and local governments. A key part of this work is conducting financial audits, which are reviews of government accounts to make sure public money is spent legally and properly.

The auditor also performs performance audits, often at the request of state leaders, to evaluate whether agencies are operating efficiently and using resources wisely. In addition, the auditor provides technical assistance to local governments and can impose fiscal oversight on communities or agencies that fail to meet financial standards.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

The current Auditor of State is Keith Faber (Republican). He has been State Auditor of Ohio since 2019. He was formerly a member of the Ohio House of Representatives (2001-2007), elected from the 84th district, and then a member of the Ohio State Senate (2007-2016), elected from the 12th District. He was president of the Ohio Senate from 2013 to 2016.

The text in the above bio is quoted directly from the following source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keith_Faber

The secretary of state is Ohio’s chief elections officer, responsible for overseeing voter registration, election processes, and maintaining election-related records. This office also handles business filings and public records, ensuring that companies and individuals are authorized to operate in Ohio. The secretary of state plays a crucial role in administering election laws and is involved in the apportionment process for legislative districts​​.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A. and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press.

The current secretary of state is Frank LaRose (Republican). He has served as the 51st Secretary of State of Ohio since January 2019. He was a Republican member of the Ohio State Senate for two terms from January 2011 to January 2019. He was a Republican candidate for the U.S. Senate in the 2024 election, challenging incumbent Senator Sherrod Brown. He lost to Bernie Moreno in the primary.

LaRose graduated from Copley High School. He subsequently enlisted in the United States Army in 1998, serving in the 101st Airborne Division and later the U.S. Special Forces as a green beret. He received the Bronze Star for his service in Iraq. He has said that his military service influenced his desire to protect elections and voters’ rights.

He graduated from Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in consumer affairs and a minor in business administration.

LaRose ran for Ohio Senate in 2010 and defeated the Democratic nominee, Summit County Councilman Frank Comunale in the 27th District, a Democratic-leaning district, by 56.5% to 43.5%. LaRose won re-election to his seat in 2014 with 67.7% of the vote.

The text in the above bio is quoted directly from the following source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frank_LaRose

Now let’s talk about some key people who serve in the Governor’s cabinet, which consists of appointed officials who lead various state agencies.

Tim Cosgrove is a CSU alumnus and a current CSU trustee who has made a significant impact on public affairs and government relations throughout his career.

Early in his career, Cosgrove served as a key staff member for Governor George Voinovich. In this role, he became a trusted advisor and was referred to as the governor’s right hand in Columbus. As the director of policy and legislation, Cosgrove helped to shape state laws and policies. His responsibilities included analyzing important issues, advising the governor on potential outcomes, and developing strategies that guided the state’s legislative and administrative actions to meet the needs of Ohio residents.

Success in this position required Cosgrove to have strong negotiation and communication skills to effectively work with the legislature, ensure proposals were practical and actionable, and collaborate with experts from various government agencies. Managing the policy portfolio for the entire state also meant overseeing a wide range of complex issues and making strategic decisions that affected millions of people.

Originally from Collinwood, Cosgrove majored in political science at CSU and also attended law school here. Previously a partner at Squire Patton Boggs, a global law firm known for its public policy and government relations expertise, he now leads his own firm, Cosgrove Jonhenry LLC.

As a trustee at CSU, Cosgrove’s leadership has been vital in strengthening the university’s connections with the broader community and enhancing its role as a key institution in Northeast Ohio.

What is a Board of Trustees?

A public state university like Cleveland State has a board of trustees to oversee its operations, set strategic directions, and ensure it fulfills its mission to serve students and the community. Trustees, appointed by the governor, are responsible for making key decisions on issues such as budgeting, academic programs, and campus development, while ensuring accountability and transparency in the university’s governance.

References

https://www.csuohio.edu/sites/default/files/Bio-Timothy_J_Cosgrove-_2023-04-11.pdf

https://cjlawpolicy.com/our-team/

This chapter has provided an overview of the key executive roles in Ohio’s state government, highlighting the extensive responsibilities of the governor and other statewide elected officials. By understanding the governor’s powers, such as veto authority and budget preparation, and the collaborative dynamics with the General Assembly, you can better appreciate how state policies are formed and implemented. This knowledge is crucial for anyone looking to engage in civic activities, as it provides insight into the processes that shape public policy and governance.

Engaging in civic activities means being informed about the roles and responsibilities of those in power and how their decisions impact your community. For example, knowing how the governor can influence education funding or public safety initiatives allows you to advocate effectively for issues that matter to you. Additionally, understanding the checks and balances system helps you recognize the importance of each branch of government and how they work together to maintain accountability and transparency.

As you move forward, consider how you can apply this knowledge to participate in local government meetings, support or challenge legislation, and even run for office. By staying informed and involved, you contribute to the democratic process and help ensure that government actions reflect the needs and interests of your community.

When we talk about state agencies, we are also talking about the larger field of public administration. At its core, public administration is a field of study and practice focused on how government gets things done and the people who make it work.

Public administration can be understood in several ways: as the activity of carrying out government policies, as a profession made up of people committed to public service, and as an academic discipline studied at universities like CSU.

This section introduces each of these perspectives.

Public Administration as an Activity

In this context, public administration is the work of carrying out government policies and programs. It involves managing people, money, and resources to serve the public and put laws into action.

Employees of state agencies practice public administration every day. Their responsibilities include developing regulations, overseeing compliance, delivering services, and communicating with the public. In these ways, they help make government decisions real and meaningful in people’s lives.

Understanding public administration as an activity helps set the stage for thinking about the people who do this work as professionals.

Public Administration as a Profession

Public administration is more than a set of government activities. It is also a profession made up of people who dedicate their careers to public service. Like other professions, it is grounded in specialized education, ethical responsibilities, and professional standards.

Public administrators work in many roles: they might manage agencies, design and enforce regulations, or advise elected officials. What unites them is a commitment to serving the public interest.

The profession is supported by university programs that prepare students for public service careers, as well as by professional associations such as the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA).

Thinking of public administration as a profession naturally leads to the question of how people are educated and trained for these roles, which brings us to public administration as an academic discipline.

Public Administration as an Academic Discipline

Public administration is both a profession and an academic field. It looks at how government agencies operate, how policies are carried out, and how resources are managed to serve the public. Studying public administration prepares students to understand government institutions and to work in roles that improve community life.

Interested in this path? CSU offers several options:

• The public policy and management major introduces undergraduates to the study and practice of public administration.
• The Master of Public Administration (MPA) program builds advanced knowledge for leadership positions in government and nonprofit organizations.
• The accelerated BA/MPA program allows qualified undergraduates to start graduate courses early and complete both degrees more efficiently.

Taken together, these three perspectives show why public administration is important for understanding state agencies. State agencies bring all of these perspectives together, which makes public administration something that is not only studied but also practiced across Ohio.

References

Greene, Jeffrey D. 2005. Public Administration in the New Century: A Concise Introduction. Wadsworth/Thomson Learning.

Henry, Nicholas. 2013. Public Administration and Public Affairs. 12th ed. Pearson.

Kettl, Donald F. 2021. The Politics of the Administrative Process. 8th ed. CQ Press.

Rosenbloom, David H., Robert S. Kravchuk, and Richard M. Clerkin. 2021. Public Administration: Understanding Management, Politics, and Law in the Public Sector. 9th ed. McGraw-Hill Education.

Waldo, Dwight. 1984. The Administrative State: A Study of the Political Theory of American Public Administration. Holmes & Meier.

State agencies in Ohio play a significant role as service providers, implementing policies and delivering essential public goods and services to residents. These agencies are tasked with various responsibilities aimed at improving the quality of life for Ohioans. They administer programs and services across numerous sectors, including transportation, health, and public safety.

One prominent example of a state agency as a service provider is the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT). ODOT is responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of the state’s transportation infrastructure, including highways, bridges, and public transit systems. By managing these critical infrastructures, ODOT ensures safe and efficient travel for residents and supports economic development by facilitating the movement of goods and services. ODOT works in collaboration with local governments, such as county engineers, to carry out road and bridge projects that often involve federal funds. This cooperative effort helps maintain and improve Ohio’s transportation network, enhancing connectivity within the state and beyond.

Additionally, the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) exemplifies the role of state agencies in providing vital public services. ODH oversees public health initiatives, including disease prevention, health education, and the regulation of healthcare facilities. The department’s efforts are crucial in managing public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, where it coordinated testing, vaccination, and public awareness campaigns to mitigate the virus’s spread. ODH’s work ensures that health standards are met across the state, promoting the well-being of Ohio’s residents through proactive and reactive health measures.

State agencies also provide targeted services to specific populations. For example, the Ohio Department of Aging offers programs and services designed to support the elderly. This includes home care services, nutritional programs, and initiatives to prevent elder abuse. By addressing the unique needs of older adults, the department helps them maintain their independence and quality of life. Similarly, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services focuses on assisting veterans with benefits, healthcare, and employment opportunities, ensuring that those who have served the country receive the support and resources they need.

In summary, Ohio’s state agencies are essential service providers, implementing policies and delivering a wide range of public goods and services. They work across various sectors to ensure the safety, health, and well-being of Ohio’s residents, demonstrating the critical role of the executive branch in state governance.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 10 – The Executive Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus, OH.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 4 – The Ohio Executive Branch in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington, DC: CQ Press.

Did you know that government agencies can make laws? They are called regulations, which are rules or directives created by a government agency that have the force of law. Agencies design these regulations to enforce legislation and guide the behavior of individuals, businesses, and organizations. For example, in Ohio, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issues regulations to limit air and water pollution to protect public health.

Regulations must be specific to an agency’s mandate, and agencies can only create them if specifically empowered by the legislature through enabling legislation.

These rules are created to protect public health, ensure fair business practices, and maintain environmental standards. For example, regulations can limit pollution, set safety standards for products, and prevent financial fraud. Without regulations, there would be fewer safeguards against harmful practices, which could lead to greater risks and inequalities in society.

Agencies are allowed to create regulations because they have specialized knowledge and expertise in specific areas that the legislature may not have.

While the legislature passes broad laws, it delegates the authority to create detailed regulations to agencies that can focus on the specifics. For example, the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy can create detailed rules about the distribution of prescription drugs because it has the specialized knowledge to ensure these drugs are handled safely and ethically. This system allows for more precise and effective governance, as agencies can respond quickly to new challenges and changes in their fields.

When an agency drafts a regulation, it typically follows a structured process that includes research, drafting, and public input. First, the agency identifies the need for a new rule or a change to an existing one. It then drafts the regulation, often with input from experts and stakeholders. After that, the draft regulation is published for public comment, allowing individuals and organizations to provide feedback. The agency reviews these comments and may make changes before finalizing the regulation. In Ohio, you can find a list of state regulations in the Ohio Administrative Code, which is available online and contains all the rules established by state agencies. This allows the public to stay informed about the regulations that affect them.

Critiques and Challenges of Government Regulations

Regulations are sometimes criticized for their potential to overreach and create what some call red tape that stifles innovation, burdens businesses, and slows economic growth.

We can define red tape as excessive or overly complex regulations, procedures, or bureaucratic requirements that can create delays, inefficiencies, and frustrations in completing tasks or accessing services. Critics argue that excessive regulations can make compliance costly and time-consuming, particularly for small businesses that may lack the resources to navigate complex rules.

Too many regulations can make government less efficient and less able to handle new problems quickly. For example, strict environmental rules might delay important projects like building bridges or roads, or make it more expensive for industries to adjust to new requirements.

Additionally, opponents of expansive regulatory frameworks warn that unchecked rule-making authority can erode public trust, as it may appear that unelected officials are wielding too much power without sufficient oversight or accountability. These concerns fuel ongoing debates about finding the right balance between necessary regulation and economic and individual freedoms.

Checks & Balances 

In Ohio, there are provisions that allow the legislature to review and potentially reject administrative rules and regulations proposed by executive agencies. The Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review (JCARR) is a legislative body that reviews proposed rules from state agencies to ensure they comply with legislative intent and statutory authority. While JCARR does not have the power to unilaterally veto rules, it can recommend invalidation to the General Assembly, which can then take action to prevent the rule from taking effect. This process provides a check on executive agencies and maintains legislative oversight over administrative rulemaking.

Judges in Ohio can invalidate agency-issued regulations. This happens through judicial review, where courts check if the rules follow the law and constitution. If someone challenges a rule in court, judges will determine whether the agency had the authority to create the rule, followed proper procedures, and if the rule is reasonable. If the court finds any problems, it can strike down the regulation. This process ensures that administrative agencies do not exceed their powers and stay within legal boundaries, adding an extra layer of oversight beyond the legislative review by JCARR and the General Assembly.

State agencies play an important role as compliance monitors and enforcers, ensuring that laws and regulations are followed and implemented as intended. Their responsibilities involve a range of activities aimed at achieving compliance with established guidelines and laws. These activities include monitoring, inspecting, and taking corrective actions to ensure adherence to policies. By performing these functions, state agencies help maintain public safety, fairness, and order in various sectors of society.

A key function of state agencies in this role is monitoring compliance. This involves regularly checking and assessing whether the entities subject to the policy are following the rules. Activities such as inspections, audits, and reviews are common practices used by agencies to monitor compliance. For example, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducts regular inspections to ensure that businesses and organizations comply with environmental regulations, such as those governing air and water quality. These inspections help identify non-compliance and take necessary actions to rectify any issues.

Additionally, state agencies are responsible for enforcement actions, which include taking necessary steps against those who violate policies. This may involve issuing fines, sanctions, or other penalties, and in some cases, initiating legal proceedings to ensure compliance. For example, the Ohio State Board of Pharmacy can impose fines on pharmacies that fail to adhere to drug distribution regulations, ensuring that dangerous drugs are handled safely and ethically.

Furthermore, state agencies provide education and guidance to help those affected by policies understand and comply with them. This might include offering workshops, publications, and direct assistance to ensure that individuals and organizations are aware of their obligations and how to meet them. Finally, state agencies are accountable for their enforcement activities, keeping records of compliance efforts, reporting on enforcement actions, and being answerable to higher authorities or the public for their outcomes. This transparency and accountability are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the effectiveness of regulations. 

By performing these roles, state agencies ensure that the policies and laws enacted by the legislature are effectively implemented and adhered to, thereby safeguarding public interests and promoting orderly conduct across various sectors.

State agencies play a vital role as advisors and researchers, contributing valuable insights that inform policy decisions and legislative actions. These agencies conduct extensive research, gather data, analyze trends, and issue reports that provide expert advice to the legislature, executive branch, and the public. For example, departments of health undertake studies on public health trends and devise strategies for disease prevention. Their research helps shape public health policies and initiatives aimed at improving community health outcomes. Similarly, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) monitors ecological trends, assessing the impact of various factors on natural resources, which in turn guides environmental legislation and conservation efforts.

In addition to their advisory and research functions, state agencies are also key educators and public information officers. They have a responsibility to educate the public and stakeholders about laws, regulations, and available services. This is achieved through public awareness campaigns, training programs, and the publication of informational materials. For example, health departments regularly inform the public about health risks and preventive measures through campaigns on issues such as vaccinations, healthy living, and disease prevention. The Ohio EPA conducts similar outreach to raise awareness about pollution, recycling, and conservation practices, ensuring that residents are informed about how to protect their environment and comply with state regulations.

By fulfilling these roles, state agencies ensure that the public is well-informed and that policies are based on accurate, up-to-date information. They serve as a bridge between the government and the public, facilitating communication and understanding. This dual function of advising policymakers and educating the public helps create a more informed citizenry and a more responsive and effective government. Through their research and educational efforts, state agencies contribute to the overall well-being of society, ensuring that policies are not only well-informed but also widely understood and supported.

Bureaucracy refers to the system of administration and organization used to manage large institutions, including government agencies. It means having a chain of command, set responsibilities, and different offices or units within the same organization, all guided by rules that help government agencies put policies into action.

In Ohio, state agencies such as the Ohio Department of Health and the Ohio Department of Transportation operate within a bureaucratic framework to manage public health initiatives and infrastructure projects, respectively.

However, the term “bureaucracy” often carries a negative connotation, suggesting inefficiency, red tape, and a lack of responsiveness to public needs.

Despite these criticisms, bureaucracy remains central to how government functions and how services are delivered to the public.

Government employees work within this system every day. Many focus on making it more effective by finding ways to be efficient, transparent, and responsive. Their efforts show that bureaucracy is not only about rules and procedures but also about serving the public and building trust between agencies and the communities they support.

In public management, the way government employees view and interact with the public can vary significantly, reflecting different roles that the public may assume. These roles include viewing the public as customers, partners, and citizens. Each perspective shapes the interaction between government employees and the public, influencing the effectiveness and nature of public service delivery.

When government employees view the public as customers, they focus on providing efficient and high-quality services. This customer-centric approach emphasizes responsiveness and satisfaction. For example, the Ohio Department of Taxation may adopt a customer service mindset by offering online tax filing systems and assistance tools. This approach streamlines the process for taxpayers and treats citizens like customers in the private sector, aiming to meet their specific needs quickly and effectively. 

Viewing the public as partners involves collaboration between the public and government to achieve common goals. This perspective recognizes that the public can contribute to the production and delivery of services. A practical example is the implementation of neighborhood watch programs where local residents work alongside law enforcement to enhance community safety. By partnering with the public, government agencies can leverage local knowledge and resources, leading to more effective and sustainable outcomes.

The role of the public as citizens highlights the importance of civic engagement and participatory governance. In this view, government employees engage citizens in decision-making processes, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered. An example of this is a state legislative committee organizing town hall meetings to discuss proposed changes to certain laws. By involving citizens in these discussions, government employees can foster a sense of ownership and trust in government decisions, leading to more democratic and accepted outcomes.

Each of these roles—customer, partner, and citizen—offers unique benefits and challenges for government employees. Viewing the public as customers can enhance service delivery efficiency but may overlook the importance of public input. Partnering with the public can improve service outcomes but requires effective collaboration and communication. Engaging citizens in governance can lead to more democratic decision-making but may involve complex and time-consuming processes.

In summary, effective public management involves recognizing and balancing these different roles. Government employees must be adaptable, understanding when to treat the public as customers needing efficient service, as partners in service delivery, and as citizens engaged in governance. This multifaceted approach can lead to more responsive, collaborative, and democratic public administration, ultimately benefiting the community as a whole.

Implications for the People 

As Customers – Citizens should expect efficient and high-quality services from government agencies, similar to customer service in the private sector. They can provide feedback to improve service delivery and hold agencies accountable for meeting their needs.   

As Partners – Citizens can engage in collaborative efforts with government agencies, contributing their knowledge and resources to enhance service delivery. This partnership can lead to more effective solutions and a greater sense of community involvement.

As Citizens – Active participation in governance, such as attending town hall meetings or providing input on policy decisions, allows citizens to influence government actions and ensure their voices are heard. This engagement fosters democratic decision-making and builds trust in government institutions.

Reference

Thomas, John Clayton. 2013. “Citizen, Customer, Partner: Rethinking the Place of the Public in Public Management.” Public Administration Review 73 (6):786-796.

In this chapter, we explored the various roles that state agencies play in Ohio’s government and the critical functions they perform to ensure effective governance and public welfare. From maintaining infrastructure and providing healthcare services to enforcing regulations and educating the public, state agencies are fundamental to the state’s operation. Understanding the multifaceted roles of these agencies helps us appreciate the complexity and importance of public administration.

One of the key themes of this chapter is the importance of civic engagement. We learned how government employees view the public as customers, partners, and citizens, and how these perspectives shape their interactions with the public. By recognizing the public’s role in governance, state agencies can create more responsive and democratic policies. This understanding is important for anyone looking to make a difference in public service.

We also examined specific examples of how state agencies work with the public. The Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) and the Ohio Department of Health (ODH) provide clear illustrations of how state agencies deliver essential services and respond to public needs. These examples highlight the practical application of public service and demonstrate how collaborative efforts between the government and the public can lead to better outcomes for communities.

The Ohio judicial system exists to maintain order in the state and to promote justice. Its main purpose is to interpret and apply the law fairly and consistently. Judges review the facts of each case, determine how the law applies, and issue rulings or judgments. For example, if someone is accused of theft, the court examines the evidence, applies the law, and decides whether the person is guilty and what the penalty should be.

Ohio has several levels of courts, from local mayor’s courts to the Supreme Court of Ohio. Different courts handle cases according to their seriousness. A minor traffic violation may be resolved in a mayor’s court, while a major constitutional question could be decided by the Supreme Court.

The system also provides for appeals, allowing higher courts to review decisions made in lower courts. If a person believes a legal mistake occurred in their trial, they can appeal to a higher court, which may overturn or modify the earlier decision. This process limits the power of individual courts or judges and promotes consistency in how laws are applied across the state.

The judicial system also checks the powers of the legislative and executive branches. This power, called judicial review, allows courts to decide whether laws or government actions follow the Ohio and U.S. Constitutions. Judicial review helps maintain a balance of power and protects the principles of democracy and the rule of law.

Reference

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH.

The Ohio judicial system is a well-organized network of courts designed to interpret and apply the law within the state. It includes different courts like the Supreme Court of Ohio, Courts of Appeals, Courts of Common Pleas, Municipal and County Courts, and the unique Mayor’s Courts.

• The Supreme Court of Ohio is the highest court and makes final decisions on important legal disputes, especially those involving state laws.
• The Courts of Appeals review decisions from lower courts.
• The Courts of Common Pleas, found in each of Ohio’s 88 counties, handle serious criminal and civil cases.
• Municipal and County Courts manage less severe matters, such as misdemeanor crimes and civil disputes involving smaller amounts of money.
• Mayor’s Courts, unique to Ohio, let local mayors oversee minor cases like traffic violations.

Before we identify the different courts that operate at the state and local levels in Ohio, let’s differentiate civil versus criminal law.

Civil law deals with disputes between individuals or organizations, where one party believes they have been wronged by the other. In civil cases, the person bringing the lawsuit is called the plaintiff, and the person being sued is the defendant. The goal is usually to obtain compensation or another remedy for the harm done. For example, if someone slips and falls in a store due to a wet floor, they might sue the store for medical expenses and other damages.

Criminal law, on the other hand, involves actions considered offenses against society. In criminal cases, the government prosecutes individuals or organizations accused of committing crimes. These crimes can range from minor offenses, such as traffic violations, to serious crimes, such as robbery or murder. The government, represented by a prosecutor, seeks to punish the wrongdoer to deter future crimes and maintain public order. For instance, if someone is caught stealing from a store, they could be charged with theft and face penalties like fines or imprisonment if found guilty.

While civil cases often result in the losing party paying damages, criminal cases can lead to more severe penalties, including jail time. Understanding these differences helps clarify how various legal issues are addressed and resolved in the legal system.

Mayor’s Courts are local courts found in some Ohio cities but not all. These courts handle minor cases like traffic violations and local ordinance issues. Unlike other courts, the mayor can be the judge, and they don’t have to be a lawyer, but they must get some legal training. Mayor’s Courts are not courts of record, meaning they don’t keep a full transcript of proceedings, but they must report their activities to the Ohio Supreme Court. If someone wants to appeal a decision from a Mayor’s Court, they can go to the Municipal or County Court.

Case Example 

In a Mayor’s Court, a typical case might involve a local resident who was cited for running a stop sign in a residential neighborhood. The resident challenges the citation, so the mayor or an appointed magistrate would hear the case, determine whether the traffic violation occurred, and decide the appropriate penalty, such as a fine.

The Sometimes Unfair Financial Burden of Fines and Fees  

Fines are monetary penalties imposed by a court as punishment for violating the law. They can be given for various offenses, including traffic violations, misdemeanors, and other minor infractions. The amount of the fine depends on the severity of the offense and local laws. Fines are meant to deter future violations and generate revenue for the government.

Many Ohio mayor’s courts depend on money from fines and fees to operate. This can lead to a conflict of interest, where the courts issue more fines and fees to make money. It also raises concerns about fairness.

For example, small traffic violations can result in large fines. If people can’t pay these fines, they face additional penalties like license suspensions and even jail time. This can trap them in a cycle of debt and legal problems, worsening their financial situation.

Supporters of fines and fees argue that these penalties are necessary to enforce traffic laws and other ordinances, ensuring public safety and compliance. They believe that fines act as a deterrent, discouraging people from breaking the law. Additionally, supporters might point out that fines and fees provide essential funding for the court system and other public services, helping to maintain infrastructure and community programs.

However, while fines and fees can promote compliance, they disproportionately impact low-income individuals, creating a cycle of debt and legal troubles that can be difficult to escape. Alternative approaches, such as income-based fines or community service, could potentially achieve the same goals of compliance and safety without unfairly burdening the poor.

This isn’t just a problem in Ohio. If you want to learn more, read this opinion piece about St. Louis County, Missouri.

Reference

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 5 – Courts in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press p. 81-83.

Municipal and county courts in Ohio were established by state law to hear cases such as traffic violations, misdemeanors, evictions, and civil disputes where the amount in controversy is less than $15,000. There are 130 municipal courts and 35 county courts in Ohio, and they are often referred to as the “workhorses” of the state judicial system due to their high volume of cases.

Municipal courts typically have jurisdiction over one or more municipalities or even entire counties, depending on the local population and geographical needs. County courts, on the other hand, serve areas not covered by municipal courts. Judges in these courts can be full-time or part-time in municipal courts, while county court judges are part-time. These courts help to maintain local order and provide accessible justice for everyday legal issues.

These courts also conduct preliminary hearings for felony cases before they are moved to common pleas courts, which have jurisdiction to handle these cases. By conducting preliminary hearings, municipal courts ensure that there is sufficient evidence to proceed with felony charges, protecting defendants’ rights by preventing them from facing unwarranted prosecution.

The administration and funding of these courts are primarily the responsibility of local governments. This means that cities or counties allocate the necessary resources to maintain court operations, including paying for judges’ salaries, staff, and facilities. Although the state provides regulatory oversight and ensures that the courts adhere to standardized procedures, local governments bear the financial burden of their day-to-day functioning.

Housing courts specifically in Cleveland and Toledo were established by the Ohio General Assembly address cases related to housing and property issues. These specialized courts handle disputes such as landlord-tenant conflicts, building code violations, eviction cases, and other matters affecting the quality of housing and neighborhood stability. The creation of these courts was driven by the need to focus judicial attention on the unique challenges of urban housing and the goal is to resolve cases impacting public health, safety, and the well-being of communities.

Case Example 

In an municipal or county court, you might hear cases involving traffic violations, such as a driver facing charges for speeding or running a red light. For example, a driver cited for driving 20 miles per hour over the speed limit could have their case heard in Municipal Court, where the judge would determine the appropriate fine or penalties based on the evidence presented.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 128-130.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 5 – Courts in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press p. 82-84.

This practice dates to the early 20th century when the state legislature established the system to ensure that park management remained fair and impartial. By having probate judges, who are trusted and neutral legal officials, select the commissioners, the goal was to keep the board free from political influence and focused solely on preserving and improving the parks for public enjoyment.

The probate judges’ role in appointing the Metroparks Board helps maintain transparency and accountability in park operations. Since judges are seen as objective and knowledgeable, their appointments are generally trusted to prioritize the community’s best interests. This system helps ensure that the commissioners are dedicated to their roles and committed to the long-term sustainability and accessibility of the Metroparks, which are valuable resources for recreation, conservation, and education in Ohio.

Reference

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 126-127.

The Courts of Appeals in Ohio serve as intermediate appellate courts, which means they review decisions made by lower courts to ensure the law was applied correctly. Ohio is divided into twelve appellate districts, and each district has its own Court of Appeals. These courts hear cases from the Courts of Common Pleas, Municipal Courts, and County Courts. When someone loses a case in one of these lower courts and believes there was a legal error, they can appeal to the Court of Appeals. A panel of three judges reviews each case, examining the records from the lower court and considering written and oral arguments from both sides.

The Courts of Appeals have the authority to affirm, reverse, or modify the decisions of lower courts. They also have original jurisdiction over certain special types of cases, such as those involving writs of habeas corpus and mandamus. Judges on the Courts of Appeals are elected to six-year terms and must have practiced law for at least six years before taking office. These courts play a vital role in ensuring fairness and consistency in the application of the law across Ohio.

Chief Justice Sharon L. Kennedy serves as the head of the Ohio Supreme Court and has made significant contributions to the state’s judicial system through her extensive legal career. She began her professional journey as a police officer in Hamilton, Ohio, which provided her with a unique perspective on the law enforcement side of the justice system. Later, she earned her law degree from the University of Cincinnati College of Law and transitioned into private practice, where she developed a strong foundation in legal principles and advocacy.

As a judge on the Butler County Court of Common Pleas, Chief Justice Kennedy gained recognition for her work in developing specialized docket programs, such as a felony non-support court to address parental support issues, and a drug court aimed at rehabilitation over incarceration. Elected to the Ohio Supreme Court in 2012, she has focused on improving the efficiency and accessibility of the judicial system. She has been a strong advocate for the modernization of court processes, including the implementation of electronic filing systems to streamline case management. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting judicial education and professional development for judges across Ohio. Chief Justice Kennedy’s efforts have enhanced the administration of justice in Ohio, making the legal system more responsive and effective for its citizens.

Jurisdiction means the authority a court has to hear and decide a case. A court’s jurisdiction depends on the type of case and where it happens. For example, a local court might handle a speeding ticket, while only the Supreme Court of Ohio can decide certain constitutional questions about Ohio law.

Ohio’s state courts handle most legal matters. These include criminal cases like theft or assault, civil disputes such as contract disagreements or property issues, and family matters like divorce or child custody. State courts also hear cases involving the Ohio Constitution and state laws.

The federal courts deal with cases that involve the U.S. Constitution, federal laws passed by Congress, disputes between people from different states when large sums of money are involved, and cases where the United States government is a party. Federal courts also hear cases involving treaties, international issues, or disputes that cross state lines.

State vs. Federal Courts 

In short, state courts focus on Ohio laws and most day-to-day legal matters, while federal courts handle issues that involve national laws or the U.S. Constitution. Some cases can be heard in both systems, but jurisdiction determines which court has the legal authority to decide.

In Ohio, judges are selected through a process that combines both elections and appointments. Judges at all levels, from the Municipal Courts to the Supreme Court, are elected by the public to six-year terms. Relatively recent changes in Ohio law (2021) require party affiliations to be listed on the ballot for candidates running for the Ohio Supreme Court and the state’s appellate courts. Candidates for these positions participate in partisan primary elections, and their party affiliations are listed on both the primary and general election ballots. For Municipal Courts and Courts of Common Pleas, candidates run in partisan primaries but appear on the general election ballot without party affiliation, aiming to promote judicial impartiality during the general election.

When a vacancy occurs between elections, the Governor has the authority to appoint a judge to fill the position until the next election.

In several states, judges are appointed rather than elected. For example, in California, judges of the Supreme Court and Courts of Appeal are appointed by the Governor and then confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments. In New York, the Governor appoints judges to the Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court, with the advice and consent of the state Senate.

One advantage of appointing judges is that it can help ensure that only highly qualified candidates are selected, reducing the influence of political campaigns and fundraising. However, a drawback is that it may limit the public’s ability to have a direct say in who serves as a judge, potentially leading to a lack of accountability. Overall, appointed judges can promote a more merit-based selection process, but they may also seem less connected to the voters’ preferences.

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 127-129.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 5 – Courts in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press p. 86-87.

Judicial independence means judges make decisions based only on the law and the facts, without being influenced by politics, public opinion, or outside pressures. This principle is essential for protecting the integrity of the judicial system and building public trust.

In practice, though, independence can be difficult to achieve. In Ohio, judges are elected through a political process. Campaigns for office can create pressure to rule in ways that appeal to voters or financial supporters instead of focusing solely on the law. This can be especially challenging for judges who plan to run for reelection.

In states where judges are appointed, political influence can still shape the process. Governors who appoint judges may be influenced by ideology, policy goals, or pressure from interest groups. This shows that complete independence is difficult no matter how judges are chosen. Both elected and appointed systems create potential challenges to impartiality.

Judicial accountability means judges are responsible for their conduct and can face disciplinary action if they violate ethical standards. Oversight bodies, such as judicial conduct boards, investigate complaints and enforce rules when necessary.

To maintain fairness, judges must follow a strict code of conduct. A code of conduct is a set of rules that guide how people should act. The Ohio Code of Judicial Conduct has these four official Canons:

1. A judge shall uphold and promote the independence, integrity, and impartiality of the judiciary, and shall avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety.
2. A judge shall perform the duties of judicial office impartially, competently, and diligently.
3. A judge shall conduct the judge’s personal and extrajudicial activities to minimize the risk of conflict with the obligations of judicial office.
4. A judge or candidate for judicial office shall not engage in political or campaign activity that is inconsistent with the independence, integrity, or impartiality of the judiciary.

Ethical standards are reinforced through ongoing training. In Ohio, judges are required to participate in continuing legal education to stay up to date on changes in the law and to strengthen their commitment to ethical principles. By following these rules and engaging in regular training, judges protect the integrity of the courts and support public confidence in the justice system. 

References

Ohio Legislative Service Commission. 2023. Chapter 11 – The Judicial Branch in A Guidebook for Ohio Legislators. Columbus OH p. 127-129.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 5 – Courts in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington DC: CQ Press p. 86-87.

https://www.ohiobar.org/public-resources/commonly-asked-law-questions-results/law-facts/law-facts-ohios-courts/

https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/docs/LegalResources/Rules/conduct/judcond0309.pdf

Judicial restraint and judicial activism are two different ways judges can interpret the law. Judicial restraint focuses on sticking closely to the original intent of the Constitution and laws, avoiding personal opinions, and deferring to the legislative and executive branches. It values stability, respect for precedent, and a limited role for judges in the democratic process.

But judicial activism supports a broader interpretation of the law, considering current values and societal needs. This approach allows judges to address social issues and promote justice, even if it means overturning precedent or challenging other branches of government. Judicial activists play a more active role in shaping public policy and protecting individual rights.

Judge4Yourself.com is a non-partisan resource that provides ratings for judicial candidates in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. It aims to help voters make informed decisions by offering detailed evaluations based on criteria such as integrity, knowledge, experience, and impartiality. The ratings are created by six cooperating bar associations with input from experienced lawyers.

However, the site has faced criticism and accusations of bias. Both Democratic and Republican candidates have complained about the ratings process, with some suggesting that it is unfair or inconsistent. For example, the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party recently decided not to participate in the review process, citing concerns over declining ratings for candidates with increasing legal experience. Despite these criticisms, the coalition behind Judge4Yourself has expressed its commitment to a fair and transparent process, continually working to improve the evaluation criteria and ensure experienced lawyers are involved in the reviews (Signal Cleveland).

For further information, you can visit Judge4Yourself.com.

Reference

Naymik, Mark. 2024. Cuyahoga Democrats Boycotting Judge4yourself. Signal Cleveland.

The criminal justice system is the network of people and organizations that deal with crime and law enforcement. Its purpose is to keep communities safe, hold people accountable when they break the law, and protect the rights of the accused.

The system begins with law enforcement officers, who investigate crimes and arrest suspects. Prosecutors decide what charges to bring and present evidence in court, while defense attorneys represent the accused and make sure their rights are protected. Judges oversee trials, apply the law, and make rulings based on the evidence.

If someone is found guilty, the corrections system carries out the sentence. This can include prison, probation, or parole. Corrections officers and probation or parole officers also work on rehabilitation, which helps people return to society after serving their sentences.

Understanding how Ohio’s courts operate will give you a better picture of this larger system. Courts are where many of the most important parts of criminal justice take place—trials, sentencing, and appeals. By learning about the courts, you’ll see how justice is carried out and how rights are protected in practice.

Opportunities for change within the judicial system help to address the unintended effects, biases, and errors that can arise when judges uphold existing laws. While judges are bound to enforce the laws written by the legislature, these laws can sometimes have consequences that were not anticipated or intended. For example, certain laws might disproportionately impact specific communities or fail to adapt to new societal challenges. Recognizing these issues, society has the opportunity to learn from past experiences and develop new strategies that are more just and effective.

The legislative branch plays a key role in this process by crafting and amending laws. When evidence shows that current laws are not achieving their intended goals or are causing harm, the legislature has the authority and responsibility to make necessary changes. A notable example is the War on Drugs, which has led to widespread criticism for its role in mass incarceration for nonviolent crimes and its disproportionate impact on minority communities.

In response to these criticisms, there has been a growing movement to reform drug laws by implementing treatment and rehabilitation for nonviolent offenders rather than only punitive measures. Even people who disagree with Professor Alexander’s premise of systemic racial bias have sought related reforms. 

References

https://www.supremecourt.ohio.gov/courts/judicial-system/supreme-court-of-ohio/justices-overview/melody-stewart/

https://www.ohiobar.org/about-us/awards-scholarships/nettie-cronise-lutes-award/

This chapter provided an in-depth look at the judicial branch of Ohio’s state government, highlighting its essential role in maintaining justice, upholding the rule of law, and protecting individual rights. We began by examining the purposes of the Ohio judicial system, which include interpreting laws, resolving disputes, and serving as a check on the legislative and executive branches. By ensuring that laws are applied fairly and consistently, the judicial branch helps to maintain a balanced government and protect the principles of democracy.

The chapter detailed the structure of Ohio’s judicial system, from local Mayor’s Courts to the Supreme Court of Ohio. Each court has specific functions and handles different types of cases, contributing to a well-organized and efficient judicial process. The Mayor’s Courts handle minor offenses like traffic violations, while Municipal and County Courts deal with misdemeanors and civil disputes. The Courts of Common Pleas, divided into specialized divisions such as General, Domestic Relations, Juvenile, and Probate, handle more serious cases. The Courts of Appeals review decisions from lower courts, and the Supreme Court of Ohio serves as the highest court, making final decisions on significant legal issues.

Understanding these different courts and their functions is crucial for recognizing how justice is administered in Ohio. The chapter also covered the judicial selection process and ethical considerations, emphasizing the importance of judicial independence and integrity. Judges in Ohio are elected, ensuring they are accountable to the public, while also adhering to strict ethical guidelines to maintain impartiality and public trust. This balance between accountability and independence is vital for a fair judicial system.

The knowledge gained from this chapter is not only informative but also empowering for your future civic engagement activities. Being informed about the judicial system enhances your ability to participate in civic duties such as jury service, voting in judicial elections, and advocating for legal reforms. Understanding the judicial process allows you to better navigate legal situations and protect your rights. Moreover, this awareness fosters a deeper appreciation for the role of the judiciary in maintaining social order and justice, encouraging active participation in discussions and actions that shape the legal landscape.

By understanding the intricacies of Ohio’s judicial branch, you are better equipped to engage in meaningful civic activities and contribute to a just society. Whether you are pursuing a career in law, public service, or simply striving to be an informed citizen, the insights gained from this chapter provide a strong foundation for your civic responsibilities. Your knowledge of the judicial system will enable you to advocate effectively for fair legal practices and ensure that justice is upheld in your community.

Ohio’s state government operates through a wide range of agencies that deliver services, regulate industries, and support communities. Each offers distinct career opportunities for people interested in public service.

Department of Administrative Services (DAS)

Mission & Role: Provides centralized services to state agencies, including procurement, human resources, IT, and facilities management.

Public Service Opportunities: Organizational management, procurement, technology support, HR, and facilities administration.

Department of Agriculture (ODA)

Mission & Role: Oversees food safety, farming standards, plant and animal health, and even amusement ride inspections.

Public Service Opportunities: Food inspection, agricultural policy, consumer protection, and environmental compliance.

Department of Children & Youth (DCY)

Mission & Role: Coordinates services for Ohio’s children, youth, and families, including early childhood programs, foster care, and adoption.

Public Service Opportunities: Child welfare, program administration, case management, policy development, and family support services.

Department of Commerce

Mission & Role: Regulates businesses, financial institutions, and markets. Its Division of Unclaimed Funds helps Ohioans reclaim lost or forgotten assets.

Public Service Opportunities: Regulatory enforcement, consumer outreach, financial services, and licensing oversight.

Department of Development (ODOD)

Mission & Role: Promotes economic growth and community development through workforce initiatives, business support, and housing programs.

Public Service Opportunities: Economic development, grant administration, housing programs, and business outreach.

Department of Education & Workforce (DEW)

Mission & Role: Oversees Ohio’s public schools, curriculum standards, and assessments, while also connecting education to workforce development.

Public Service Opportunities: Policy analysis, curriculum development, workforce alignment, and data systems.

Department of Health (ODH)

Mission & Role: Protects and improves public health through disease prevention, emergency preparedness, health inspections, and community health initiatives.

Public Service Opportunities: Epidemiology, health education, emergency management, regulatory enforcement, and program coordination.

Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)

Mission & Role: Administers programs such as unemployment insurance, Medicaid, food assistance, child support, and workforce development.

Public Service Opportunities: Social services, benefits administration, workforce programs, and policy implementation.

Department of Natural Resources (ODNR)

Mission & Role: Manages parks, forests, waterways, wildlife, and oversees mineral resources, dam safety, and recreational programs.

Public Service Opportunities: Conservation, environmental planning, outdoor recreation, and regulatory roles.

Department of Public Safety (ODPS)

Mission & Role: Promotes safety through emergency response coordination, homeland security, licensing, and oversight of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.

Public Service Opportunities: Law enforcement, emergency management, highway safety, homeland security, and licensing.

Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC)

Mission & Role: Oversees Ohio’s prison system and rehabilitation programs for inmates.

Public Service Opportunities: Correctional management, rehabilitation services, parole supervision, and facility operations.

Department of Transportation (ODOT)

Mission & Role: Maintains Ohio’s highway system and supports public transit, aviation, and other transportation infrastructure.

Public Service Opportunities: Civil engineering, project management, transportation planning, and operations management.

Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA)

Mission & Role: Enforces state and federal environmental laws, regulates pollution control, and manages emergency environmental response.

Public Service Opportunities: Environmental regulation, compliance, water and air quality analysis, and emergency response.

Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) (Division of Public Safety)

Mission & Role: Enforces traffic laws, investigates crashes, and provides emergency and investigative support services.

Public Service Opportunities: Troopers, investigators, aviation support, and public safety communications.

Not all state employees need to move to Columbus. While Columbus is the state capital and home to many state government offices, Ohio has a decentralized approach to state employment, with job opportunities spread across the state. Let’s explore opportunities in Northeast Ohio.  

State Jobs in Northeast Ohio  

• Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) – Positions for engineers, maintenance workers, and project managers in regional district offices and on infrastructure projects.

• Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – Roles in monitoring and enforcing environmental regulations, particularly in the region’s industrial areas.

• Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) – Jobs at state parks like Cleveland Lakefront State Park or in conservation efforts.

• Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS) – Positions in workforce development, unemployment services, and social services.

• Ohio Lottery Commission – Headquarters in Cleveland, offering administrative and operational roles.

• Public Safety & Law Enforcement – Positions with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, parole officers, or roles in regional corrections facilities.

• Judicial Branch Opportunities – Clerk positions or legal staff roles in local courts connected to state systems.

State jobs outside Columbus allow residents to serve our state while benefiting from stable government employment.

Applying for a job in state government is a structured and straightforward process that begins with researching available positions on the Ohio Department of Administrative Services website. This site provides a list of current job openings, including detailed descriptions and qualification requirements. You can search for jobs by keyword, skill, location, and organization.

When you find a position that matches your skills and interests, prepare your application carefully. Update your resume to highlight relevant experiences and skills and write a tailored cover letter that explains your interest in the role and how your background makes you a strong candidate. Pay close attention to the application instructions and deadlines to ensure you submit all required documents on time.

Additionally, consider reaching out for informational interviews or networking with current state employees to gain insights into the application process and the work environment.

Our school offers several public service-related majors that prepare students to be effective problem solvers for their communities. Three majors are particularly relevant: Public Policy and Management, Community Planning, and Environmental Studies.

The public policy and management major introduces students to the world of public service. Its interdisciplinary approach allows students to understand public service from various perspectives and across different levels of government, with an emphasis on local government. This major equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate and impact the public sector effectively.

Our community planningmajor provides a strong foundation in urban geography, political systems, and social matters. Covering topics such as urban planning, statistics, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), sustainability, and public management, students are well-prepared to address and solve various community issues. This major opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the public, private, and nonprofit sectors. 

The environmental studies BA is designed for students passionate about sustainability and environmental protection. This major focuses on the intersection of environmental science, policy, and management. Students learn to analyze environmental issues and develop solutions that promote sustainability and conservation. This major prepares graduates for careers in environmental advocacy, policymaking, and resource management.

Graduates of these majors are well-positioned to pursue well-paid, meaningful careers in local government, nonprofit organizations, and the private sector. Internship opportunities are available to all students, providing valuable hands-on experience. Scholarships are available for qualified students to help support their education.

Additionally, the Columbus Seminar offers on-site involvement in government, and our formal mentoring program pairs juniors and seniors with public service practitioners working in the student’s area of interest. Students with substantial prior learning or professional experience can apply for credit through our AAPLE program, which stands for Assessment and Accreditation of Prior Learning Experience. There are also opportunities to participate in small seminar groups, research projects, and online courses.

For more information, visit our website, email us at passc@csuohio.edu, or call 216-687-3884. You can also talk to your professor to learn more about exciting opportunities.

Dr. Roberta Steinbacher is a renowned professor emerita at Cleveland State University, where she founded the Levin College of Urban Affairs and designed its first undergraduate programs.

Over her career, she empowered thousands of students to pursue careers in public service, providing opportunities previously unavailable to many students. For example, Dr. Steinbacher created the Push to Achievement Program, a collaboration between CSU and the Cuyahoga County Department of Human Services Welfare Division. This initiative enabled 130 women receiving public assistance to earn a four-year degree.

She also created the AAPLE program to recognize students’ prior learning and expedite their degree completion.

Beyond her academic contributions, Dr. Steinbacher was a distinguished practitioner. She served in Governor Richard Celeste’s cabinet from 1983 to 1988 as the Executive Director of the Ohio Department of Human Services. In this role, she oversaw various state social service programs and initiatives, addressing critical issues related to public assistance, child welfare, and social services. Her tenure in the department underscored her deep commitment to public service and social equity, and her work continues to inspire students and professionals dedicated to improving the welfare of Ohio’s residents.

Remember, if you choose to pursue one of our undergraduate majors, you’ll benefit from the expertise of a distinguished leader in the field who dedicated herself to CSU. When you walk into the Urban Building’s atrium, look up, and you’ll see it’s named after her. As a senior, you can also earn a full ride through the Campbell-Steinbacher Fellowship program, which she and another founding professor, Dr. Thomas Campbell, personally endowed.

Professor Steinbacher with Professor Sy Murray at the Levin School’s 2024 homecoming party.

If you’re interested in a career in the judicial branch, becoming a judge, clerk, or another key role can be a rewarding path. Judges start their careers as lawyers and gain experience in various legal settings before being appointed or elected to the bench. This journey requires dedication and a strong understanding of the law, making law school a crucial step.

After obtaining a law degree and passing the bar exam, aspiring judges usually work as attorneys for several years. They might specialize in areas such as criminal law, civil litigation, or family law. This practical experience is vital as it provides a deep understanding of legal procedures and helps build a reputation in the legal community.

Many future judges also serve as clerks for more experienced judges, learning the intricacies of court operations and decision-making processes. The combination of legal practice and clerkship experience equips aspiring judges with the skills and knowledge necessary for judicial roles.

For those who prefer not to attend law school, there are still opportunities within the judicial system. Positions such as court clerks, bailiffs, and court reporters play important roles in the administration of justice. Court clerks manage the flow of cases and maintain court records, while bailiffs ensure courtroom security and order. Court reporters transcribe court proceedings to create accurate records for future reference.

Additionally, there are roles like legal assistants and paralegals who support lawyers and judges by conducting research, organizing files, and preparing legal documents. These positions typically require an associate’s degree or certification in paralegal studies.

Another important point is that if you see yourself pursuing a law career and want to stay in Cuyahoga County, most Court of Common Pleas judges, prosecutors, and public defenders earned their law degrees at CSU’s Law School. The network and connections are strong. You’re in a good place here.

For students considering careers in state government, this chapter has highlighted the diverse opportunities available. Careers in state government are not only fulfilling but also essential for maintaining the well-being and safety of our communities. From a civic engagement perspective, you learned more about state agencies and what they do.

In Ohio, elections for state offices are held on a regular schedule, with different offices up for election in different years:

Gubernatorial Elections 

The Governor of Ohio is elected every four years, with the next election scheduled for 2026. Gubernatorial elections are held in midterm election years, which are the years when there are no presidential elections (e.g., 2022, 2018, 2014).   

State Legislative Elections 

Ohio House of Representatives – All 99 seats in the Ohio House of Representatives are up for election every two years during even-numbered years (e.g., 2022, 2024, 2026).

Ohio Senate – The Ohio Senate has 33 seats, with half of the seats up for election every two years. Each senator serves a four-year term, so half of the districts are elected in presidential election years (e.g., 2024, 2028) and the other half in midterm election years (e.g., 2026, 2030).

Statewide Executive Offices 

Other statewide executive offices, including the lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, treasurer, and auditor, are elected every four years, coinciding with the gubernatorial elections (e.g., 2022, 2026).

Judicial Elections

Ohio Supreme Court – Justices on the Ohio Supreme Court serve six-year terms. Elections are staggered, with some justices elected in presidential election years and others in midterm election years.

Ohio Courts of Appeals and Common Pleas Courts – Judges in these courts also serve six-year terms, with elections held in both presidential and midterm election years depending on the specific court and district.

Reference

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/title-35

There are two types of elections for these positions:

Primary elections determine the candidates who will represent each political party in the general election. Ohio uses a semi-open primary system where voters must declare their party affiliation at the polling place to receive the corresponding party’s ballot. This system allows for some flexibility while still maintaining party control over the nomination process. Primary elections set the stage for the general election.

General elections in Ohio are held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. These elections determine who will hold public office, including statewide executives, legislators, judges, and many local officials. Voters also decide ballot issues, such as constitutional amendments, local levies, or referenda. While turnout is highest during presidential election years, Ohioans also vote in odd-numbered years for local offices and issues. You’ll learn more about ballot issues and local government elections in subsequent chapters. This chapter focuses on state elections.

Ohio runs elections through a partnership between state and local officials. Voters can cast a ballot on Election Day, take part in early in-person voting, or use absentee voting. 

Early in-person voting is a method of voting that allows registered voters to cast their ballots at designated locations before election day. In Ohio, early in-person voting typically begins several weeks prior to the election and includes evening and weekend hours. This gives voters added flexibility and convenience. 

Absentee voting allows a voter to request a ballot ahead of time, fill it out at home, and return it by mail or drop-off.

The Ohio Secretary of State is the state’s chief elections officer. This office makes sure elections follow state and federal laws, provides guidance to local officials, keeps the statewide voter registration system, certifies results, and oversees campaign finance reporting.

At the local level, each of Ohio’s 88 county boards of elections—bipartisan offices made up of appointed members and professional staff—manage elections in their communities. A board of elections is responsible for registering voters, hiring and training poll workers, setting up polling places, and counting ballots. Poll workers are temporary staff, often community volunteers, who run polling places on Election Day. They check in voters, issue ballots, answer questions, and help keep the process organized and secure. Boards also run early voting centers and handle absentee ballots.

State and county officials work together to keep elections secure, from maintaining accurate databases to using cybersecurity tools that protect election systems. Election observers, appointed by political parties or independent groups, may also be present to monitor voting and add transparency.

Elections in Ohio depend on this shared system of responsibilities. Understanding how it works helps voters see the effort involved in making sure ballots are cast and counted fairly.

A political campaign is an organized effort by a candidate to influence an election. Most campaigns are focused on winning office, but some are run to highlight specific issues, build public visibility, or lay the groundwork for future races.

Campaigns involve raising money, reaching out to voters, building support through volunteers and endorsements, and persuading citizens to cast their ballots.

In Ohio, campaigns use a variety of strategies to reach voters and build support. These strategies can include targeting certain groups of voters, organizing grassroots efforts, and investing in media and advertising. Campaigns must decide how to use their time and resources to connect with the people whose votes they need to win.

This section looks at how campaigns operate in Ohio, from voter targeting and ground game efforts to the role of media, direct mail, and messaging. By understanding these strategies, you will see how campaigns influence elections and shape the choices voters face at the ballot box.

Targeting Voters  

Campaign strategies often begin with targeting specific voter demographics. Ohio’s diverse population and geography means that different regions have distinct political leanings and issues that matter to their residents. Campaigns typically analyze voter data to identify key swing areas, such as suburban voters in Central Ohio or working-class voters in Northeast Ohio. Understanding these demographics allows campaigns to tailor their messages and resources effectively. For example, urban areas like Cleveland and Columbus may focus on social justice and economic issues, while rural areas might prioritize agricultural policies and Second Amendment rights. This targeted approach helps campaigns appeal to specific voters whose support they need to win.

Ground Game & Grassroots Mobilization 

A ground game refers to the on-the-ground efforts a campaign uses to connect directly with voters. This often involves volunteers and staff going door to door, making phone calls, and organizing community events. Grassroots mobilization is valuable in Ohio because personal interactions can influence voter turnout and build support. A major part of this work are get out the vote (or GOTV) efforts, which focus on encouraging supporters to cast their ballots early or on election day.

Campaigns may set up local offices in important regions to coordinate these efforts and identify supporters. While candidates can sometimes win without a strong ground game—for example, if they have significant name recognition, strong party backing, or major funding—grassroots efforts remain an important tool for building enthusiasm and motivating people to vote.

Media & Advertising    

Media and advertising are a big part of campaign strategies. Given the state’s many media markets, successful campaigns invest heavily in television, radio, and digital ads to reach a broad audience. These ads are crafted to address local issues and resonate with regional values. For example, in Southwest Ohio, campaigns might emphasize conservative values and economic growth, while in Northeast Ohio, they might focus on healthcare and job creation. Social media has also become a vital tool for campaigns, allowing them to engage with voters directly, share updates, and counter misinformation. .

Direct mail in a political campaign refers to physical mail, such as postcards, flyers, or letters, sent directly to voters’ homes to communicate a candidate’s message. It remains an effective tool in elections because it allows campaigns to target specific voter groups with tailored messages, such as highlighting a candidate’s stance on issues that matter to certain demographics or urging supporters to vote early. Direct mail is particularly effective at reaching older voters, who are more likely to read physical mail, and at creating a tangible connection to the campaign. It also reinforces name recognition and can serve as a reminder to vote, making it a key part of mobilization efforts.

Messaging strategies in state political campaigns are generally chosen to reach voters effectively based on the campaign’s goals and the political context.

• Positive messaging highlights a candidate’s achievements, qualifications, and vision for the future. This approach works well when a candidate has a strong record or wants to inspire hope and optimism.
• Contrast messaging compares a candidate’s strengths to an opponent’s weaknesses, emphasizing differences in policies or values. This is often used in competitive races to draw clear distinctions.
• Negative messaging, which criticizes opponents, is typically deployed in close races to highlight perceived flaws or past controversies, though it can risk backlash if seen as overly aggressive. Attack ads are a type of political advertisement that focuses on criticizing an opponent’s record, character, or policies instead of highlighting the sponsor’s own strengths. Attack ads are a common form of negative campaigning and are often used to sway undecided voters or weaken an opponent’s support.
• Issue-focused messaging targets specific voter concerns, such as education, healthcare, or public safety, and is particularly effective in swing districts where voters prioritize key topics. By aligning their message with voter priorities and the campaign’s objectives, candidates can shape public perceptions and build support.

Effective use of media and advertising helps campaigns shape the narrative, highlight their candidates’ strengths, and respond to their opponents’ attacks, making it a crucial element of winning elections in Ohio.

The 2022 Ohio gubernatorial campaign was a high-profile race that featured competitive primaries and a decisive general election.

In the Republican primary, incumbent Governor Mike DeWine faced challenges from more conservative candidates, including Jim Renacci, a former U.S. Representative. Despite criticism from within his party for his handling of COVID-19 policies, DeWine secured the Republican nomination with a commanding lead, thanks to his strong statewide network and moderate appeal.

On the Democratic side, former Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley and Cincinnati Mayor John Cranley competed for the nomination. Whaley won the primary and became the first woman in Ohio’s history to lead a major party’s gubernatorial ticket. Her campaign focused on economic justice, abortion rights, and combating corruption in state government.  

In the general election, Governor DeWine won decisively, earning over 62% of the vote. His strong performance resulted from several factors, including his bipartisan appeal, widespread name recognition, and a record of economic growth and job creation. DeWine highlighted his leadership during the pandemic and focused on how he balanced public health measures with economic stability.

DeWine also benefited from running in a state that had shifted increasingly Republican over the past decade, as well as from a midterm election environment where an unpopular Democratic president hurt his opponent’s chances.  

Whaley struggled to gain momentum, facing challenges from Ohio’s Republican-leaning electorate and a significant financial disadvantage compared to DeWine’s well-funded campaign.  

The 2022 Ohio gubernatorial race highlights the dynamics of modern state elections, including the impact of party divisions, campaign messaging, and shifting voter demographics. It also underscores Governor DeWine’s ability to navigate a polarized political landscape and secure broad support in a state trending toward Republican dominance.

Campaign fundraising is the process of collecting money to support a political campaign. It is a central part of elections in Ohio. Candidates need money to pay for advertising, staff, travel, events, and other costs that come with running for office. Fundraising gives candidates the resources to communicate their message, build name recognition, and connect with voters.

Donors are individuals, organizations, or groups who give money to political campaigns. Donations can range from small contributions made online to large checks written by wealthy individuals or special interest groups. Candidates often spend hours calling potential donors in a practice known as “dialing for dollars.”

Some campaigns rely on bundlers—well-connected supporters who gather donations from many people in their networks and deliver them to the campaign as a group. Bundling allows campaigns to receive large sums of money while staying within individual contribution limits.

Campaigns employ fundraisers, whose job is to bring in money and help the campaign meet its financial goals. Fundraisers plan events such as dinners, galas, and rallies, build relationships with donors, and manage online giving platforms.

Small-dollar donors are individuals who give relatively modest amounts of money to political campaigns, often through online platforms. In recent years, campaigns have increasingly relied on these contributions—sometimes called grassroots donations—to show broad support from everyday voters. While each donation may only be $5, $10, or $25, the total can add up quickly when thousands of people contribute. This trend has made campaigns less dependent on large donors and has given more voters a sense of ownership in the political process.

In addition to individual donors, candidates for state office in Ohio also raise money from party organizations and from political action committees (PACs). A PAC is a group formed to raise and spend money on elections. PACs in Ohio often represent business associations, labor unions, or issue-based organizations. They can contribute directly to state candidates, but they must follow contribution limits set by Ohio law.

Another important player in Ohio politics is the use of dark money groups. These are nonprofit organizations, often organized under section 501(c)(4) of the federal tax code, that can spend money on state elections and ballot issues without fully disclosing their donors. Their activity makes it harder for voters to know who is behind certain ads or political efforts.

By understanding how campaign fundraising works, Ohio voters can better recognize the influences behind campaigns. Informed voters are in a stronger position to hold candidates accountable and push for reforms that increase transparency and fairness in the electoral process.

Campaign finance laws are the rules that govern how money is raised and spent in political campaigns. These laws are designed to promote transparency, reduce corruption, and make elections fairer by showing the public who is funding candidates and limiting the influence of money in politics.

In Ohio, campaign finance laws set contribution limits and require candidates to disclose where their money comes from. For example, individuals can currently give up to $15,499.69 to a statewide candidate during each election period. Political action committees (PACs) and party committees are allowed to give larger amounts. These rules help prevent wealthy donors from having too much influence and give voters insight into who is supporting a campaign.

The Ohio Elections Commission enforces these laws. It investigates complaints, handles violations, and can issue penalties.

Candidates, political parties, and organizations must follow Ohio’s campaign finance laws to take part in elections within the rules.

Both the Republican and Democratic parties in Ohio are organized at the state and county levels. Each party has a state central committee, which oversees party operations and makes strategic decisions. These committees are made up of members elected from each of Ohio’s state senate districts.

County party organizations are active in local politics through recruiting candidates, organizing campaign events, and encouraging voter turnout. They also have the authority to fill vacancies in local elected offices when they occur.

At the state level, party organizations are heavily involved in campaign fundraising. They may raise money to support their candidates and can provide resources, advice, and logistical help during elections. While party conventions no longer play a major role in nominating candidates, state parties continue to be part of the campaign process in Ohio.

The party caucuses in the Ohio General Assembly have campaign committees known as Legislative Campaign Funds (LCFs). These funds are auxiliary organizations of the state political parties and are associated with the General Assembly. The four LCFs in Ohio are:

• Ohio House Republican Alliance

• Ohio House Democratic Caucus

• Ohio Senate Republican Senate Campaign Committee

• Ohio Senate Democrats

These committees play a role in recruiting competitive candidates for legislative seats and then fundraising for them. They help with strategizing and getting their current party members the necessary resources to conduct effective campaigns. LCFs coordinate efforts to recruit candidates, organize campaign activities, and disseminate partisan messaging, thereby strengthening the overall campaign infrastructure for their party. Through these structured efforts, LCFs support their candidates and contribute to the success of their campaigns.

Reference

https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code/section-3517.01

If you’ve ever thought about making a difference in your community, running for office in Ohio is a great way to get involved. Whether you’re interested in state or local government, the process to get on the ballot and run for office can be straightforward if you follow the right steps. Here’s a guide to help you understand what’s required and how you can take the first steps toward becoming a candidate.

First, it’s important to know the basic requirements for running for office in Ohio. These can vary depending on the office you are seeking. Generally, you need to meet the following criteria:

Reference    

Ohio Secretary of State. 2024. Ohio Candidate Requirement Guide Columbus, OH.

This chapter has provided a detailed look into Ohio’s elections and the campaign strategies used by candidates.

Understanding campaign strategies is crucial for anyone interested in political engagement. Campaigns in Ohio target specific voter demographics, employ grassroots mobilization, and invest in media and advertising to reach a broad audience. Effective campaigns analyze voter data, organize local efforts, and tailor messages to resonate with regional values. Knowing these strategies can help you recognize how campaigns work and the ways in which they seek to influence voters.    

This knowledge equips you to be an informed and active participant in Ohio’s political process. Whether you’re voting, volunteering for a campaign, or considering running for office, understanding the political landscape and campaign strategies can help you make a difference. By engaging in civic activities, you can contribute to shaping policies and electing leaders who represent your values and interests.

These districts are typically governed by a board of trustees, appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the State Senate. They are supported by local taxes, state funding, and student tuition, ensuring that community colleges can offer a wide range of academic programs, workforce development, and continuing education opportunities.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

In Ohio, county governments operate under different forms, each with its own structure and method of governance. The county commissioner is the most prominent form; 86 out of 88 counties use this model. Only two, Cuyahoga and Summit Counties, use the county executive/council form.

Let’s use Lake County and Cuyahoga County to describe how the two models work.

County Commissioner Form (such as Lake, Lorain, Geauga, and Medina Counties)

Most counties use the traditional county commissioner form of government. This form is characterized by a board of county commissioners, typically consisting of three members elected at-large by the county’s voters. The commissioners serve both executive and legislative roles, making decisions collectively about the administration and policies of the county.

A board of commissioners oversees several county departments, approves the budget, and sets policies. Each commissioner may be assigned administrative responsibilities, such as overseeing departments or projects. This collective decision-making process aims to ensure that a diversity of perspectives informs the governance of the county.

In this form, several other positions are elected. Like the commissioners, a sheriff, prosecutor, treasurer, clerk of courts, auditor, recorder, engineer, and coroner are elected every four years.

County Executive/Council Form (Cuyahoga and Summit Counties) 

Cuyahoga County, Ohio’s most populous county, operates under a county executive/council form of government. This structure, adopted in 2010 to enhance efficiency and accountability, features an elected county executive who serves as the chief executive officer and oversees the administration of county government.

The county executive has significant authority over the county’s operations, including appointing department heads, preparing the budget, and implementing policies. All countywide positions are appointed by and report to the county executive. Additionally, Cuyahoga and Summit Counties operate under a home rule charter, granting them more flexibility and powers than county commissioners.

The legislative functions are carried out by an elected county council, consisting of representatives from various districts within the county. The council enacts ordinances, approves the budget, and oversees the executive’s actions. This separation of executive and legislative powers aims to provide a system of checks and balances within the county government.

Key Differences

The primary difference between these two forms lies in the separation of powers and the distribution of responsibilities. In the executive/council form, the executive and legislative roles are clearly divided between the county executive and the county council, promoting a system of checks and balances. Conversely, in the commissioner form, the board of commissioners combines both executive and legislative functions, leading to a more centralized decision-making process. Understanding these forms helps to appreciate how different counties tailor their governance structures to meet their unique needs and challenges.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

In the “Counties Work” game by iCivics, you’ll take on the role of a county official tasked with keeping citizens happy by evaluating their requests, finding solutions through county departments, maintaining a balanced budget, and ensuring public safety during crises.

This game mirrors the real-world responsibilities of county governments. As you navigate the game, you’ll experience how counties provide essential services like law enforcement, public health, and infrastructure maintenance, and how officials must engage with residents and direct them to available resources.

P.S. The game is free. You don’t have to sign up for an account to play. The organization iCivics is dedicated to nonpartisan civics education.

The Ohio Revised Code lays out the rules by which local governments operate. You are not required to read those statutes; I just want you to know they exist and the state controls much about local government.

Again, the Ohio Revised Code is a collection of all permanent laws enacted by the Ohio General Assembly, organized by subject matter into titles, chapters, and sections. It serves as the primary source of state law in Ohio, detailing the statutes and regulations that govern various aspects of life in the state.

Localities (e.g., Cities, Villages & Townships) 

In Ohio, localities include cities, villages, and townships, each serving unique roles in managing community needs.

Cities are larger municipalities with populations over 5,000 and provide a wide range of services like police, fire protection, and utilities.

Villages are smaller, with populations under 5,000, offering similar services but on a smaller scale.

Townships, often found in rural areas, are the most basic form of local government, focusing on services like road maintenance, zoning, and sometimes fire and police services. These different forms of local government help ensure that communities, whether large or small, have the appropriate resources and governance to meet their residents’ needs.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

In Ohio, cities, villages, and townships each provide various services to their residents, reflecting their size and resources.

As larger municipalities, cities offer a comprehensive range of services. These include full-time police and fire departments, emergency medical services, and advanced public health facilities. Cities manage local infrastructure, including road construction and maintenance. Public works departments are responsible for the construction, maintenance, and management of the city’s infrastructure and public facilities, including roads, bridges, water and sewer systems, public buildings, and parks.

Many cities also offer extensive water, sewer, and public utility services, as well as a wide array of recreational facilities, parks, libraries, and community centers. Economic development initiatives and zoning regulations help manage urban growth and attract businesses.

Land use planning is related term. It is the process of regulating the use of land to determine who can do what with specific spaces in a locality. It involves deciding what spaces are used for housing, industry, agriculture, recreation, and conservation.

Cities may also provide specialized services like public housing programs, senior services, and arts and cultural programs to support diverse community needs.

Villages, being smaller than cities, offer similar services but on a reduced scale. They typically maintain local roads, provide basic police and fire protection, and manage water and sewer services. Villages often focus on maintaining parks and recreational facilities and may operate small libraries and community centers. They handle zoning and land use planning but usually do not have the extensive economic development programs seen in cities. The scope of services in villages is designed to meet the needs of smaller populations while ensuring a high quality of life for residents.

References

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

U.S. Census Bureau. 2024. Census of Governments’ Individual State Descriptions. Washington, DC.

Ohio cities and villages can be governed using two main models: the mayor/council model and the council/manager model.

In the mayor/council model, the mayor is an elected official who serves as the chief executive officer of the city. The mayor oversees the daily operations of the city, implements policies, and often has veto power over council decisions. The city council, also elected, acts as the legislative body, passing laws, approving budgets, and representing the interests of the residents. This model emphasizes a strong leadership role for the mayor, who is directly accountable to the voters for the city’s administration.

In contrast, the council/manager model separates political leadership from administrative management. The city (or village) council, elected by the residents, functions as the legislative body and is responsible for making policies for the city. The council then hires a professional city manager to execute these policies and handle the day-to-day operations. The city manager is an appointed official who serves at the pleasure of the council and is theoretically selected based on professional qualifications rather than political affiliation. This model aims to provide efficient and effective management through professional expertise, while the elected council focuses on policy and representation.

Both models can help local governments be responsive to their residents’ needs, but they differ in the distribution of executive powers and the role of professional management in the governance process.

Conversely, proponents of a strong mayor system argue that it ensures clear accountability by placing executive authority in a single elected leader who is directly responsible to the voters. They also emphasize that this structure allows for more decisive leadership and streamlined decision-making, particularly in addressing urgent issues or implementing citywide initiatives efficiently.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

In Ohio, the local government equivalent of a constitution is called a home rule charter. This document outlines the organization, powers, functions, and essential procedures of the local government, similar to how a constitution establishes the structure of government, sets the rules for its operation, and provides a framework for making laws and policies.

However, not all local governments in Ohio have charters. While home rule governments generally serve populations larger than 5,000 residents, not every community of this size has home rule status. According to the Ohio Revised Code, a community must first adopt a charter to exercise home rule powers. Voters must approve the charter, and any subsequent changes can only be made through amendments also approved by voters.

Home rule governments have the flexibility to create their own rules and regulations. If their charter permits, they can establish their own structure and procedures for operating the government. For example, a community may establish a council-manager form of government, or they may prefer the strong-mayor model. They also have the authority to enact laws applicable to all residents and entities in the community, provided those laws do not conflict with state or federal laws. This flexibility allows them to tailor their operations to better meet the needs of their communities.

Local governments without charters must follow the specific standardized laws set out in the Ohio Revised Code. These laws provide a detailed framework that outlines what local governments can and cannot do. This standard set of rules ensures consistency and uniformity across these local governments but also means they have less flexibility compared to those with charters.

For example, a city with a charter can decide how its government is structured, choose its own form of government (such as a mayor-council or council-manager system), and create local laws that address specific community needs. Conversely, a locality without a charter must adhere strictly to the state laws that dictate how they operate and what powers they have.

Reference

Ohio Revised Code: https://codes.ohio.gov/ohio-revised-code

Community groups play a vital role in local government and urban politics. Local interest group politics often differ from state and national-level politics. In urban areas, community groups are typically more diverse and include neighborhood associations, community development corporations, and local business coalitions. These groups focus on specific local issues such as zoning, public safety, and community development.

Urban interest groups in Ohio include a wide range of organizations, from neighborhood associations and houses of worship to community development corporations and local business coalitions. These groups work on specific issues relevant to their communities, such as improving public safety, enhancing local infrastructure, and supporting economic development. For example, neighborhood associations may advocate for better lighting and road maintenance, while business coalitions might focus on policies that support local commerce and attract new businesses.

Churches also serve as community hubs that receive attention from elected officials and drive policy change in many urban areas. Additionally, branches of national groups like the NAACP and the Urban League are influential in local politics.

The barriers to entry for local interest groups are generally lower than for national groups, allowing a wider range of organizations to participate in the political process. Local policymakers are often more accessible to interest groups, and the competition for their attention is less intense than at the national level. This accessibility allows interest groups to have a more direct and immediate impact on local policy decisions. Grassroots mobilization, public campaigns, and direct lobbying are common tactics used by urban interest groups to influence local government.

Community groups have a direct impact on local policy decisions by working closely with city council members and other local officials. For example, in Cleveland, neighborhood associations and community groups often collaborate with city council members to address issues like housing, infrastructure, and public safety. These groups can influence decisions on real estate development projects, ensuring that the interests of local residents are considered in the planning process.

References

Berry, Jeffrey M. 2012. “Urban Interest Groups.” In The Oxford Handbook of American Political Parties and Interest Groups, edited by L. Sandy Maisel and Jeffrey M. Berry, 502-515. Oxford University Press.

Sracic, Paul A., and William C. Binning. 2015. Chapter 9 – Direct Democracy in Ohio in Ohio Government and Politics. Washington, DC: CQ Press.

Townships in Ohio are governed by a board of township trustees and a township fiscal officer, all of whom are elected by the residents.

A board of township trustees is the governing body of a township in Ohio. Consisting of three elected members, the board is responsible for overseeing the administration of township services and regulations, including road maintenance, zoning, fire protection, and other local services. Trustees are elected to four-year terms, with elections staggered to ensure continuity. The board holds regular public meetings to make decisions on township matters, set budgets, and address community concerns.

The township fiscal officer is also elected and is responsible for maintaining the township’s financial records, handling budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. This officer plays a crucial role in ensuring fiscal transparency and accountability. Although independent of the township trustees, the fiscal officer collaborates with them to manage township finances effectively. Elected to a four-year term, the fiscal officer must complete required continuing education to stay informed about financial management practices and legal requirements. This role serves a function similar to that of a treasurer or finance director in other local governments.

Townships may adopt limited home rule, which grants them additional authority to pass local regulations and manage public works projects such as water and sewer systems. However, even with limited home rule, townships have fewer powers compared to cities and villages and must often rely on county governments for certain services.

Additionally, townships are required to hire a township administrator who handles much of the administrative work, assisting the trustees in managing the day-to-day operations of the township. The governance structure of townships emphasizes local control and community involvement, with elected officials directly accountable to the residents they serve. This setup allows for governance that is closely aligned with the specific needs and preferences of the township’s population.

Reference

Bethel, Alyssa. 2015. Overview of Ohio Local Government. Ohio Legislative Service Commission. Columbus, OH.

Local governments, including municipalities and counties, are structured to provide a wide range of public goods and services to their residents. These governments create various departments, each responsible for specific functions such as public safety, public health, infrastructure, and social services. The goal is to ensure that residents have access to essential services that enhance their quality of life and maintain public order.

In cities, for example, departments are often led by appointed officials or department heads who are experts in their respective fields. For example, the police department is typically headed by a police chief, while the fire department is led by a fire chief. Public works departments handle infrastructure projects, including road maintenance and water services, and are managed by a public works director. Health departments, managed by health commissioners, oversee public health initiatives such as disease prevention and health education. Other departments may include parks and recreation, which manage public parks and recreational facilities, and economic development, which focuses on attracting businesses and supporting local economies.

Counties have similar structures but often serve larger geographic areas and more diverse populations. They also manage additional functions that cities might not, such as court systems and county jails. Departments in counties are led by elected officials or appointed directors. For example, the county sheriff oversees law enforcement and jail operations, while the county coroner handles investigations into unexplained deaths. The county auditor manages financial oversight and property assessments, and the county engineer is responsible for road and bridge maintenance.

Local governments in Ohio need money to provide services like public safety, road maintenance, parks, and waste collection. Counties, cities, villages, and townships raise this money—known as revenue—from several main sources.

Property Tax

A property tax is collected by local governments—such as counties, cities, villages, and school districts—based on the assessed value of land and buildings. Property taxes are a major source of funding for schools, safety services, and local infrastructure. In most communities, this is the single largest source of local revenue.

Sales Tax

A sales tax is added to the price of goods and certain services at the time of purchase. In Ohio, both the state and counties collect sales taxes to raise revenue for government operations and public programs. When you buy something at a store, part of the total you pay goes to support county and state government services.

Income Tax

An income tax is a tax on the money people earn from wages, salaries, or other sources of income. Not every local government collects this tax in Ohio, but in cities and villages that do, it provides an important stream of revenue for general operations.

Other Sources of Revenue

Counties, cities, villages, and townships also receive money from the state and federal governments through grants and shared revenues. These funds often support roads, social services, and other programs that benefit local residents.

Local governments can also collect fees for services—such as water, sewer, and waste collection—as well as fines for traffic violations or other infractions.

Together, these sources allow Ohio’s local governments to maintain public services and invest in future development.

Residents of Ohio have many ways to engage in local government and influence policymaking. Public participation refers to how individuals and groups take part in government decision-making by sharing ideas, raising concerns, and contributing input on public issues. Through activities such as attending public meetings, serving on advisory committees, or participating in local political parties, residents can shape their communities and influence local decisions.

Attend Public Meetings  

One way to participate is by attending public meetings, such as city council sessions and hearings on specific issues. These meetings typically include time for public comments. Public comments refer to the portion of a city council or other local government meeting where residents are invited to speak directly to elected officials. During this time, members of the public can share opinions, raise concerns, ask questions, or provide input on issues affecting the community. Public comment periods are usually governed by clear rules, such as time limits for each speaker and guidelines about topics or respectful conduct. This process allows residents to participate in local decision-making and gives council members an opportunity to hear directly from the people they represent.  

Join a Community Group  

Another way to get involved is by joining or forming community groups. These are typically place-based organizations that focus on neighborhood engagement, service projects, and strengthening local connections. While some may engage in advocacy, their primary mission is often community building, service provision, or cultural programming rather than direct policy change. Examples include neighborhood associations, block clubs, and community development corporations (CDCs), which we will explore further in a later chapter.  

For example, West Park Kamm’s Neighborhood Development focuses on economic development, housing stabilization, and community events in the Kamm’s Corners area. Other community development corporations, such as Slavic Village Development and Burten, Bell, Carr Development, Inc., work to revitalize neighborhoods through housing initiatives, small business support, and public space improvements.  

By joining a community group, you gain greater access to local elected officials because these groups often serve as conduits between residents and government leaders. Many community groups have established relationships with city council members, county officials, and state representatives, allowing them to bring resident concerns directly to decision-makers. Additionally, these groups often host public meetings, forums, and networking events where officials engage with constituents, making it easier for residents to voice concerns, propose solutions, and stay informed on local policy decisions.  

Join an Advocacy Group  

You could also get involved by joining an advocacy group. These organizations work to raise awareness about specific issues and influence public policy through grassroots organizing, lobbying, and public campaigns.  

Here are some examples in Northeast Ohio that represent a range of perspectives across the political spectrum:  

• Bike Cleveland – Promotes cycling infrastructure, safety, and accessibility in Greater Cleveland, advocating for bike-friendly policies and improved transportation planning.

• Black Environmental Leaders (BEL) – Focuses on environmental justice and sustainability, particularly in communities of color in Northeast Ohio.

• Greater Cleveland Congregations (GCC) – A coalition of faith-based groups advocating for social justice issues, including criminal justice reform, health equity, and public transportation.

• Ohio Value Voters – A conservative advocacy group that promotes parental rights in education, pro-life policies, and religious freedom.

• Northeast Ohio Right to Life – Focuses on anti-abortion advocacy and legislative efforts supporting pro-life policies.

Advocacy groups amplify individual voices by organizing collective action, allowing residents to mobilize support, influence decision-makers, and drive policy change. By joining or forming an advocacy group, you can help organize events, campaigns, and petitions to raise awareness and push for reforms. These groups also provide resources and networks that strengthen communication with local government officials and the media, increasing the impact of their efforts.  

Get Involved with Your Local Political Party

Joining your county political party as a committee member is another effective way to get involved. A county party is the local branch of a political party that operates at the county level, organizing political activities, supporting candidates, and mobilizing voters within its jurisdiction. County parties are typically affiliated with state and national party organizations and can play a role in candidate recruitment, grassroots organizing, fundraising, and election efforts. They also coordinate local party committees, host events, and provide resources for political engagement, such as voter outreach and issue advocacy. Examples include the Cuyahoga County Democratic Party and the Cuyahoga County Republican Party.  

In larger cities, participating in ward clubs can also be beneficial. Ward clubs, like those in Cleveland, are local political organizations typically aligned with a specific party. These clubs mobilize voters, endorse candidates, and engage in grassroots campaigning efforts. They might organize community events, voter registration drives, and informational meetings to discuss local issues and political strategies. For example, the Cleveland Ward 17 Democratic Club focuses on voter engagement, community education, and supporting Democratic candidates across all levels of government. Getting involved in a county party or ward club allows residents to connect with elected officials, gain political experience, and influence local decision-making.  

Serve on a City or County Advisory Committee  

Residents can also apply to serve on city or county advisory committees, which provide community input on specific programs, policies, and development plans. These committees give residents a direct voice in local decision-making and help ensure that government actions reflect community needs and priorities. Advisory committees are typically composed of appointed volunteers with an interest or expertise in a particular issue area.  

Examples of advisory committees and boards:

• Zoning Board of Appeals – Reviews requests for zoning variances and exceptions to local land-use laws. Residents who serve on this board help determine how land is used and developed in their community.

• Planning Commission – Advises local government on development projects, infrastructure improvements, and land-use policies. This group plays a key role in shaping the long-term vision of a city or county.

• Civil Service Commission – Oversees hiring and employment policies for municipal workers, ensuring a fair and transparent process for public sector jobs.

• Community Police Advisory Board – Facilitates dialogue between law enforcement and residents, providing recommendations on public safety policies, police accountability, and community relations.

• Transit Advisory Board – Works with public transit agencies to improve transportation access, infrastructure, and services for residents.

• Historic Preservation Commission – Reviews proposals for restoring or modifying historic buildings and districts to maintain the cultural heritage of the area.

Serving on an advisory committee is a great way for residents to influence local policies, work with government officials, and bring new perspectives to important decisions. It also provides valuable experience in public service and policymaking. Many cities and counties regularly seek volunteers for these committees, with openings posted on their websites. By joining, residents can help shape their community’s future and ensure their voices are heard in local government.  

Vote, Run for Office or Just Call Your Elected Officials  

Participating in local elections—both by voting and running for office—is one of the most direct ways to influence government. Voting gives residents the power to choose representatives who align with their values and priorities, shaping policies that affect their daily lives. Those who want to take a more active role in decision-making can run for local office, such as city council, school board, or county positions, to directly impact their community’s future.  

Another way to engage with local government is by communicating directly with elected officials. Residents can email, call, or use social media to share concerns, provide input on proposed legislation, and request meetings to discuss important issues. Establishing relationships with local officials helps residents stay informed about policy developments and ensures their voices are heard in decision-making processes.

Local government fragmentation refers to the distribution of power across many small local governments within a given area. In Northeast Ohio, this fragmentation is evident, with numerous cities, villages, townships, special districts, and school districts operating independently. This region alone has 485 separate local governments, including 146 cities and villages, 112 townships, 113 special districts, and 114 school districts. The sheer number of these local entities means that decision-making power is dispersed among many different bodies, each responsible for specific services and policies within their jurisdiction.

One of the primary benefits of having so many local governments is that it allows for greater representation and responsiveness to the specific needs of smaller communities. Residents can choose to live in communities that best match their preferences for services and taxation levels, a concept known as “voting with your feet.” This competition among local governments can lead to more efficient and tailored services, as each entity strives to attract and retain residents by meeting their unique needs. Additionally, fragmentation can foster innovation and new ideas, as multiple governments can experiment with different approaches to common problems, potentially leading to better overall solutions.

However, this fragmentation also comes with significant costs. The existence of numerous local governments can lead to redundancies and inefficiencies. For example, having multiple human resources or public works departments within a single county can result in unnecessary duplication of efforts and resources. This can be costly and may lead to inconsistencies in service delivery across neighboring areas. Another example has to do with fire departments. Two fire departments might be a mile apart, but they both buy the same kind of ladder truck or other equipment. Ladder trucks are seldom used but cost up to $1.4 million each.

Fragmentation can exacerbate inequalities between affluent and poorer communities, as wealthier areas can afford better services, leaving disadvantaged regions with fewer resources. This can also contribute to suburban sprawl, as local governments may prioritize developing open spaces for economic gain rather than preserving them, weakening the urban core and spreading resources thinly across a wider area.

Suburban sprawl is the uncontrolled expansion of suburban areas into the surrounding countryside, characterized by low-density residential and commercial development. Suburban sprawl often leads to increased reliance on automobiles, loss of open spaces and farmland, and greater environmental impacts. It typically results in extended infrastructure needs, such as roads and utilities, and can contribute to longer commutes, traffic congestion, and decreased community cohesion.

Downs, Anthony. 1994. New Visions for Metropolitan America. Washington, DC: Brookings Institution.

Krouse, Peter. 2019. “St. Louis Tried to Merge Its Way to a More Prosperous Future But Couldn’t Pull It Off.” Cleveland Plain Dealer, May 19.

Tiebout, Charles M. 1956. “A Pure Theory of Local Expenditures.” The Journal of Political Economy, 64(5):416-424.

The U.S. Census of Governments

Regionalism refers to efforts by neighboring local governments within a metropolitan area or region to work together on shared issues such as transportation, housing, land use, and economic development. Regionalism can take many forms, ranging from informal cooperation to full political consolidation. The goal is to improve efficiency, coordination, and equity in how services are delivered across communities.

One type of regionalism is consolidation, in which several smaller local governments combine into a single, larger government. Researchers such as Anthony Downs have argued that consolidation can reduce inefficiencies and inequalities caused by fragmented local government structures. In theory, fewer and larger local governments can eliminate redundant services and improve resource management. For example, instead of maintaining 50 separate HR or public works departments within one county, three or four regional departments could serve the same area more efficiently.

Examples of successful consolidation include Nashville and Louisville, where city and county governments merged to form unified metropolitan governments. These efforts have led to more coordinated planning and service delivery.

Other forms of regionalism are less formal. Some communities use interlocal cooperation, where local governments share services or coordinate on specific issues—such as joint fire protection districts, regional SWAT teams, joint purchasing agreements, or shared budget offices. This type of regionalism allows each municipality to retain its independence while gaining the benefits of collaboration.

Regionalism can also promote greater equity. When local governments collaborate or consolidate, resources can be distributed more evenly between affluent and lower-income areas. Wealthier communities often have more resources, while others struggle to fund basic services. Regional cooperation can help reduce these disparities and create more balanced opportunities for residents across an entire region.

However, this transfer of money and resources from one community to another also presents a significant political obstacle to regional cooperation. Communities are often reluctant to support initiatives that redirect their tax dollars to benefit other jurisdictions. Many residents and local leaders fear losing control over how their revenues are spent, particularly if they believe their community is being asked to subsidize services in another.

As a result, even when regionalism promises greater efficiency and fairness, it can be difficult to gain public or political support, especially for consolidation.

Chris Ronayne (Democrat) is the current County Executive of Cuyahoga County, bringing a wealth of experience in urban planning and community development to the role. He is a proud graduate of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University, where he earned his degree in Urban Planning and Development. This education laid the foundation for his career, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to address the complex challenges faced by urban communities.

Before becoming County Executive, Ronayne served as the President of University Circle Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to the development and promotion of Cleveland’s cultural hub. In this role, he spearheaded numerous initiatives to enhance the area’s economic growth, transportation, and community engagement. His leadership helped transform University Circle into a vibrant, thriving district that attracts visitors and residents alike.

As County Executive, Chris Ronayne focuses on improving public services, economic development, and infrastructure within Cuyahoga County. He is committed to creating a more equitable and sustainable community for all residents. Under his leadership, the county has embarked on various projects aimed at reducing poverty, increasing access to education, and fostering job growth.

Ronayne’s background in urban planning and development informs his approach to governance. He believes in the power of thoughtful planning and collaboration to drive positive change. His vision for Cuyahoga County includes enhancing public transportation, expanding affordable housing, and supporting local businesses.

Some of the text in the above bio is quoted directly from the following source: https://cuyahogacounty.gov/executive/about-us

John Plecnik (Republican) is a law professor at CSU and serves as a Lake County Commissioner. He earned his law degree from Duke University and an LL.M. in Taxation from New York University. At CSU’s College of Law, Plecnik teaches courses in tax law, tax procedure, and wealth transfer tax. His academic contributions are recognized internationally, and he has been honored with awards such as the Golden Apple Award from CSU’s Young Alumni Council.

In addition to his academic career, Plecnik has made significant contributions to public service as a Lake County Commissioner. Sworn in as the 79th Commissioner in 2021, he plays a key role in setting the budget and administrative policy for the county government. As commissioner, Plecnik focuses on fiscal responsibility, economic development, and improving public services. He has worked on initiatives to attract businesses to Lake County, enhance public safety, and ensure efficient use of taxpayer dollars.

His background in law and public policy equips him to address complex issues and serve the community effectively, supporting his dual roles with expertise. 

Reference

https://onlinelaw.csuohio.edu/faculty-john-plecnik/

Armond Budish (Democrat) served as the Cuyahoga County Executive from 2015 to 2022. He earned his law degree from New York University School of Law and began his professional journey as a lawyer, specializing in elder law and estate planning. His work in this field led to the publication of several books and articles, establishing him as an authority on issues affecting seniors.

Before his tenure as County Executive, Budish served in the Ohio House of Representatives from 2007 to 2014. He was elected Speaker of the House and served in that role from 2009 to 2011. In this leadership position, he focused on legislative initiatives aimed at economic development, education reform, and healthcare improvement.

After leaving office, Armond Budish continued his commitment to public service and education by affiliating with the Levin College of Public Affairs and Education at Cleveland State University. At CSU, he works with faculty and students pursuing careers in public service.

Reference

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armond_Budish

Katherine Gallagher serves as the Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations and Community Innovation in Cuyahoga County, where she oversees the fiscal department, human resources, IT, and innovation and development. A joint JD/MPA graduate from Cleveland State University, Katherine brings a strong foundation in law and public administration to her role, driving efficiency and progress across essential county operations. Prior to her current position, she was the Mayor of Brooklyn, Ohio, where she demonstrated her commitment to community-centered leadership. Katie’s career exemplifies the dedication to innovation and service that the Levin School instills in its graduates.

In this chapter, we’ve explored the various forms of local government in Ohio, including counties, cities, villages, and townships. We’ve learned about the services they provide, how they are structured, and how they are governed. Understanding these different local government units helps us appreciate the roles they play in our daily lives and the community at large.

By examining the services provided by counties, such as law enforcement, public health, and social services, we can see how these essential functions keep our communities safe and healthy. The differences between city, village, and township services highlight how each locality tailors its offerings to meet the specific needs of its residents. This knowledge is crucial for understanding how local policies and decisions directly affect our daily experiences and well-being.

We also discussed the different governance models, such as the mayor/council and council/manager systems, and how they impact local decision-making. Learning about the influence of interest groups on city policies and the challenges and benefits of fragmented local government versus regionalism provides a broader perspective on the complexities of local governance. These insights can help us become more informed and engaged citizens.

As you move forward, you can apply what you’ve learned in this chapter to your civic engagement activities. Whether it’s attending public meetings, joining community groups, or simply staying informed about local government actions, your participation can make a difference. Understanding the structure and function of local governments equips you with the knowledge to advocate for positive changes in your community and ensure your voice is heard.

Mayors matter now more than ever. Whether leading a big city or a small town, they are often the public face of local government—the people residents look to when problems need solving. Mayors deal directly with the everyday issues that affect quality of life: public safety, infrastructure, housing, and jobs. Their decisions can determine whether a city thrives or struggles.

In large cities, mayors manage complex operations and serve diverse populations. They’re responsible for delivering basic services, balancing budgets, and setting priorities that keep cities moving forward. Many also represent their cities on national and international stages, working with other urban leaders to share ideas and address shared challenges like climate change, economic inequality, and public health.

Political theorist Benjamin Barber described this growing network of collaboration in If Mayors Ruled the World, arguing that cities—and the mayors who lead them—are uniquely positioned to take practical action where national governments often stall.

In smaller communities, the mayor’s role can look a bit different but is no less important. These leaders often know many residents personally and respond directly to local concerns. They work to strengthen neighborhoods, support small businesses, and maintain essential services such as roads, water, and waste management. Their leadership helps create a sense of belonging and shared purpose that holds communities together.

Across the country, mayors bring government closer to the people. They turn policy ideas into real-world results, tackle problems head-on, and build the partnerships needed for cities and towns to grow.

Reference

Barber, Benjamin R. 2013. If Mayors Ruled the World: Dysfunctional Nations, Rising Cities. Yale University Press.

Carl Stokes made history in 1967 when he became the first African American mayor of a major U.S. city, Cleveland, Ohio.

His election was a significant milestone in American political history, symbolizing a profound shift in the nation’s racial dynamics and political landscape during a time of intense social upheaval and civil rights struggles. Stokes’ victory was not only a triumph for African Americans but also a testament to the possibility of political change and progress in urban America.

Stokes’ election represented a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for African American communities nationwide. It demonstrated that African Americans could achieve high political office and wield significant influence in shaping public policy and governance. His administration was characterized by a commitment to addressing urban problems and promoting racial equality. Stokes focused on revitalizing Cleveland’s economy, improving public services, and fostering better relationships between the police force and the African American community, which had been strained by years of mistrust and discrimination.

One of Stokes’ notable achievements was the implementation of the “Cleveland: Now!” program, an ambitious urban revitalization initiative aimed at addressing the city’s economic and social challenges. The program sought to attract investments, create jobs, and improve housing and infrastructure in Cleveland’s neglected neighborhoods. Although the program faced numerous challenges and criticisms, it marked a significant effort to tackle urban decay and promote economic development in a major American city.

Carl Stokes’ legacy extends beyond his tenure as mayor. His groundbreaking election paved the way for future generations of African American politicians and leaders. His leadership and vision continue to serve as an enduring symbol of the potential for progress and equality in American politics. Stokes’ impact on Cleveland and American society remains a powerful reminder of the importance of diversity and inclusion in political leadership.

City councils are at the heart of local democracy in Ohio. In most cities and villages that use the mayor-council form of government, the mayor serves as the executive, while the council acts as the legislative branch. Councilmembers make the laws, approve the budget, and represent the interests of residents. They also work with the mayor and city departments to make sure public needs are met—whether that means funding police and fire services, maintaining roads and parks, or supporting neighborhood development.

In larger cities, councils tend to have more professional support. Councilmembers are usually paid for their service and may have staff to help with policy research, communication, and constituent outreach. These resources allow councils to operate through committees focused on specific areas such as finance, safety, or public works. This structure helps city governments handle complex issues efficiently and make informed decisions that affect thousands of residents.

In smaller towns and villages, the setup often looks different. Councilmembers may volunteer their time, receive little or no pay, and have limited staff assistance. Many hold full-time jobs outside of public service but still dedicate themselves to improving their communities. They might spend evenings discussing zoning changes, local infrastructure repairs, or organizing community events.

No matter the size of the city or the level of resources, Ohio’s city councils share the same purpose: to represent their communities and make thoughtful decisions to keep local government responsive and effective.

City council meetings serve as the primary venue for elected officials to make decisions on behalf of the community. These meetings are typically open to the public, which provides transparency and an opportunity for residents to observe or participate in the decision-making process.  

A typical city council meeting begins with a call to order, led by the council president or mayor, followed by the pledge of allegiance. Afterward, the council moves to approve the agenda, ensuring all items for discussion are agreed upon. Minutes from the previous meeting are usually reviewed and approved to maintain an accurate public record of council activities.  

The main portion of the meeting often includes public comment periods, where residents can voice their opinions or concerns about issues affecting the community. Some councils may require individuals to sign up in advance to speak, while others allow for open comment. These sessions provide valuable input to council members and demonstrate the importance of civic engagement.  

City council meetings also include the review and discussion of ordinances, resolutions, and motions. You’ll remember that ordinances are local laws that address zoning, public safety, or other municipal issues. Resolutions are often used to express the council’s stance on broader topics or to approve specific actions, such as contracts or agreements. Each ordinance is typically introduced, discussed, and sometimes voted on during the meeting. In some cases, an ordinance may require multiple readings or public hearings before a final vote.  

Throughout the meeting, reports from committees, city departments, or the mayor may be presented. These updates help council members stay informed about ongoing projects, financial matters, and other administrative activities. The council may also discuss budgets, approve expenditures, or make appointments to local boards and commissions.  

Finally, the meeting concludes with new business or open discussions, where council members address emerging topics or raise concerns for future consideration. The meeting is then adjourned, and the public record is updated to reflect all actions taken.

Note that the city clerk plays a key role in organizing city council meetings. The clerk works behind the scenes to ensure the meeting runs smoothly and adheres to legal and procedural requirements. Responsibilities often include preparing the agenda in collaboration with council members, maintaining official records such as meeting minutes, and distributing materials to council members and the public. The clerk may also handle logistics, such as scheduling the meeting, setting up the meeting space, and ensuring that public notices about the meeting are issued as required by law.

Sunshine laws, sometimes referred to as open meetings laws, are designed to make local government more transparent by requiring meetings of elected officials and governing bodies to be open to the public. These laws promote accountability by allowing residents to observe decision-making processes and see their representatives in action. Transparency allows public scrutiny of government actions, which ideally fosters trust between officials and the communities they serve.  

In local government, transparency is particularly important because decisions at this level often have a direct and immediate impact on residents’ daily lives. Open meetings laws mandate public access to council deliberations, requiring advance notice of meetings, publication of agendas, and opportunities for community input. This framework helps prevent secretive decision-making and builds a culture of fairness and openness. It also allows residents to stay informed and participate actively in shaping policies that affect their neighborhoods.  

A lack of transparency can lead to corruption, favoritism, or decisions that fail to reflect the community’s needs. Sunshine laws act as a safeguard against these issues by making government actions visible and accessible. They reinforce the principle that local officials are accountable to the public and that their actions must withstand scrutiny. By creating an open forum for discussion and decision-making, these laws strengthen public trust and encourage civic engagement.  

Jane Campbell (Democrat), Cleveland’s first female mayor, served from 2002 to 2006 and is an alumna of the Maxine Goodman Levin College of Urban Affairs at Cleveland State University. Her tenure as mayor was marked by her focus on economic revitalization and public safety, two critical issues for the city at the time. Campbell’s leadership was instrumental in initiating several key projects that aimed to improve the quality of life for Cleveland residents and boost the local economy.

One of Campbell’s notable accomplishments was the establishment of the Cleveland Industrial Retention Initiative (CIRI). This program aimed to support and retain local businesses, recognizing the vital role they play in the city’s economic stability. By providing resources and assistance to existing businesses, CIRI helped to safeguard jobs and foster a more robust industrial sector in Cleveland. This initiative demonstrated Campbell’s proactive approach to economic development and her commitment to sustaining the city’s industrial base.

Additionally, Campbell played a pivotal role in securing federal funding for the Euclid Corridor Transportation Project, a major thoroughfare in Cleveland. This ambitious project aimed to transform Cleveland’s Euclid Avenue by improving public transit and stimulating economic development along the corridor. The project included the creation of a bus rapid transit system, which enhanced accessibility and connectivity for residents. This initiative not only improved public transportation but also spurred investment and development in the area, contributing to the revitalization of one of Cleveland’s key thoroughfares.